IT WAS a dream come true for artist Denise Greaves when one of her paintings was chosen as the festive scene for Christmas cards which get sent round the globe.

And now she is doubly delighted to learn she has won the honour for the second year running after judges from Darwen Civic Society chose her picture of Darwen Market Hall for their millennium card.

Denise of Powell Street, Darwen, said: "I am thrilled to bits. I always wanted to paint the scene for the Civic Society Christmas card and I was delighted when it was opened up as a competition. To win a second time is fantastic."

Brian Hilton, secretary of Darwen Civic Society, said: "The cards have become collectors' items over the years and they get sent all over the world. It will be launched at our annual coffee morning at Derwent Hall morning in October."