
Arnold Sam’s Joyful Drawing of Santa and a Christmas Tree Chosen for the Festive Front Cover
A six-year-old boy from Epsom, Surrey, has been named the winner of the Big Issue’s Christmas cover competition, with his vibrant and joyful illustration set to adorn the magazine’s front page this festive season. Arnold Sam’s drawing of a beaming Christmas tree and a jubilant Santa was praised by judges for its cheerful spirit and welcoming theme.
This year’s competition, which invited children to submit designs based on the theme of ‘welcome,’ saw an overwhelming response, with hundreds of entries from schools and young artists.
Arnold shared his excitement, saying: “When I heard this exciting news, I felt so happy and really proud that my drawing will be on the cover of the Big Issue. The magazine helps people, and I want to wish everyone a super happy Christmas. I hope Santa can bring Christmas gifts and joy to every nice kid in the world.”
His mother, Queenie, added: “He loves drawing, and this opportunity was especially exciting for him.”
Big Issue editor Paul McNamee remarked: “This year’s entries to the Christmas Kids Cover Competition were arguably the best ever. Hundreds of fantastic festive submissions flooded in, making it almost impossible to choose a winner.”
Arnold’s artwork will be featured on the magazine’s cover, spreading Christmas cheer and a message of warmth during the holiday season.