THE creative eye of a six-year-old has gained international recognition.

As previously reported in the Gazette, Jessica Hallewell, from Pamber Heath, decided to use her artistic talents to help support Ark Day.

The arty Silchester Primary School pupil had set herself a £100 target to raise by drawing customised pictures for people in exchange for a donation which would go towards the Ark Cancer Centre Charity’s £5 million campaign.

However, since putting pen to paper on May 31, the six-year-old has raised ten times the amount and has received orders for pictures from as far away as Australia.

Jessica’s mother, Vikki Hallewell, said: “When the money started coming in, I couldn’t believe it, it just kept going up and up.

“Everyone has been so supportive of Jess’ drawings and she has had people ask for really sentimental drawings or just something small to help support the charity.”

Jessica’s pictures have become so popular that businesses and supporters of the charity have asked the six-year-old to walk out as a mascot during the Ark Day charity match between Basingstoke Rugby Club and Basingstoke Town on June 21.

So far, Jessica has drawn more than 40 pictures and will be taking orders up until Ark Day on June 21.

At the time of publication, Jessica has raised £1,035 which will go to the Ark Cancer Centre Charity, which is raisings funds to help fund a new NHS cancer treatment centre in Basingstoke.

Vikki added: “I am so proud of her, we never thought things would blow up like this.

“People have been sharing what Jess has been doing and she is really enjoying drawing all the pictures for people and helping support the charity.”

To place an order or to donate, visit Jessica’s Just Giving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/Picturesforthepiggy, or her Facebook page at facebook.com/picturesforthepiggy.

The day itself, on June 21, is a 24-hour-long fundraising event which will see many of the borough’s residents and businesses get involved in many different ways to help the project.