A TALENTED Swindonian who illustrated a book written by celebrated comedian and musician Tim Minchin is now launching an art competition to get children thinking about what they want to do when they grow up.

Old Town resident Steve Antony, 41, has had 11 children’s books published since graduating from Swindon College.

A daydreamer as a child, he was always making up stories and drawing pictures to go with them – a passion which flourished when he was asked to illustrate Tim Minchin’s book When I Grow Up, based on the song from his stage hit Matilda the Musical.

And now Steve, who is a Swindon Libraries children’s patron, is launching an art contest to encourage children living in Swindon and Highworth to let their imaginations run wild.

Keeping with the theme of the book, the youngsters are asked draw what they would like to be when they grow up.

A jam-packed celebration at St John’s Church in Park tomorrow at 11.30am will kick-start the competition, which closes on January 13.

Steve, who has donated 15 copies of When I Grow Up to Swindon Libraries, says it is a unique opportunity for kids to get creative.

The illustrator and Tim Minchin will pick the winners – one from each library – and they will be announced on January 20.

Gifts including a signed copy of When I Grown Up will be presented to those who produce the best drawings.

Entry forms can be picked up from any Swindon library from Friday onwards.