Kick It Out has announced the five regional winners and the one national winner of its 'Find a Friend' mascot competition.

The hunt to find the best design for the equality and inclusion campaign's very own mascot, to be called 'Kio', began earlier this year.

With over 1000 entries submitted, clubs across the four professional divisions teamed up with local schools, youth and community groups and study centres to make the initiative an unqualified success.

The regional winners, as judged by the 'Find a Friend' panel, are:

James Froud, from Didcot, Oxfordshire who designed a mascot for Reading FC's Kingsley the Lion.

"The characteristics of Kio are very kind. She has a 09 on the back of her shirt as this is the year Barack Obama was made President."

Linzi Taylor, from Alnwick. Linzi is a Newcastle United fan who designed a Zebra mascot.

"I chose a Zebra because it is black and white, and is a strong courageous animal that can defuse a situation."

Muminah Hannan from Chantry Lane Primary School in Luton, designed a Kangaroo mascot.

"Kio is supportive and energetic and has a great sense of humour."

Stoke City fan, Freya Sammons, designed a robot for her entry.

"A robot has no pre conceived ideas about racism and my Kio will be hi-tec, interactive and educational."

Curtis Meehan, from Padiham, Burnley, designed a peacock.

"Kio is fun, pleasant, does crazy moves. People won't be able to stay away from Burnley games with him around."

But the overall winner was Bradford City fan, Katie Whyatt. Katie's design took the form of a globe-headed character demonstrating Kio was well travelled and interested in different cultures from around the world.

"Kio treats everyone equally and doesn't like abuse, especially at football matches. He doesn't mind what the final score is as long as there's no racism."

Katie's design is now being produced into a full size mascot and will be showcased at this weekend's Grassroots Football Live Show at the NEC in