Doctors are a big draw at the Sick Kids

PATIENTS at Edinburgh's Sick Kids hospital are being encouraged to draw their favourite doctor as part of a competition celebrating 60 years of the NHS.

The British Medical Association wants the youngsters to create portraits to help recognise the role of doctors in the health service.

Dr Maeve McPhillips, a consultant at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, said: "This is a great opportunity for us to see ourselves as others see us, although I hope that the children are flattering.

"Being in hospital can be difficult for children and their families and I hope this competition provides some distraction."

The contest will be judged by a panel and prizes will be given to the winners at a ceremony during the BMA's annual conference in Edinburgh in July. Winning entries will be seen at the BMA Scotland Festival Art Exhibition, from August 4-25 at the association's office on Queen Street.