Zebras of all shapes and sizes walking to school have been drawn by Merton schoolchildren to make up calendars to be distributed in time for Christmas.

The Debra the Zebra calendars are made up of dozens of hand drawn pictures by primary school children, some as young as four years-old, who entered the council’s competition to have their drawings featured.

The council has produced the calendars in partnership with Merton’s schools for several years to promote road safety and encourage young people to walk to school.

Invitations were sent to every primary school in Merton to take part.

The entry of Chloe, six, of Merton Park Primary

The pictures had to include Debra the Zebra walking to school with the young artist and many show colourful depictions of the pair crossing the road safely together or crossing the threshold of the school gates.

Matthew, six, of Pelham Primary School, Wimbledon.

Cabinet member for education, Councillor Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, said: “The incredibly high standard of entries is always very impressive and this year is no different. I am sure schools across the borough will enjoy having these delightful calendars on their classroom walls throughout 2017.”

Calendars have been sent to all schools in the borough.