A COMPETITION to design a logo for Borehamwood's new community theatre has received an "overwhelming" response.

Schoolchildren were invited to get their creative thinking caps on and come up with a design that would capture the essence of The Ark theatre, to be opened in September at Hertswood School, in Cowley Hill.

The image will be used on the entrance gates, the website, stationery and even the building.

Five primary schools including Clore Shalom Primary School, in Hugo Gryn Way; Shenley Primary School, in London Road, Shenley; Summerswood Primary School, in Furzehill Road, Borehamwood; Shenley Primary School, and Woodlands Primary School, in Alban Crescent, Borehamwood; and Hertswood Lower School all took part in the competition and together submitted 773 designs.

Zoë Watkins, arts college director at Hertswood School, said: "We are delighted so many children got involved and came up with a design for The Ark.

"The response has been overwhelming and we have thoroughly enjoyed looking at each and every one of the designs.

"We are so pleased that the community has got involved to such a degree and are very grateful to all the schools that took the time to encourage their students to take part."

A panel of cross-party councillors, council officers and school representatives shortlisted six designs on Thursday and will complete final judging by the end of May.

The winner will be a guest of honour at the official opening ceremony of The Ark planned for November.