Prize time for Chronicle’s top tots

WINNERS . . . back, from the left: Gaynor Wilson (Shy Violet Photography), Harris Lohdi (10 months), Karman Lohdi, and Zahid Iqbal (Smyths Toys). Front: Michelle Aspin, Aaliyah Aspin (1), Evie Clarke (4) and Roxi Dickinson

THE winners of this year’s Chronicle Top Tots competition received their prizes at a presentation ceremony at Smyths Toys Superstore, Centre Retail Park, Oldham.

Harris Lohdi, of Lees, won the 0-1 year section, Aaliyah Aspin, of Derker, was voted top in the 1-3 year group and Evie Clarke, of Uppermill, topped the voting of readers in the 3-5 year category.

Each category winner received a £70 Smyths Toys voucher, a £30 meal voucher for Fresca Italian Restaurant, in Delph, a 16in x 12in print of the competition entry and 24in x 16in canvas, courtesy of Shy Violet Photography, plus a family announcement in the Chronicle worth up to £150. There were also prizes for two runners-up in each section.

Harris Lohdi is one of three children of Karman and Zoe Lohdi. Harris has a brother Danyal-Cameron (10) and sister Jasmine-Zara (seven).

Karman (30) said: “I’m a bit shocked but I’m over the moon. I didn’t think we’d win at all but I’m very happy that we have.

“I want to thank everybody that voted for my son, including all my friends and family. We’re delighted.”

Aaliyah Aspin’s mum Michelle Aspin (20) said: “I’m really pleased that she’s won. I wasn’t really expecting her to because there were quite a few entries and it was a big category.

“It’s brilliant that everyone has voted for her and I’m delighted for her.”

Evie Clarke is the only child of Ben Clarke (22) and Roxi Dickinson (21).

Mum Roxi said: “I’m absolutely made up she’s won. I was really hopeful she would but we never expected to.

“When I got the call I couldn’t believe it. I’m so glad that she has won. Thank you to everyone that has voted.”