The UK’s first nationwide, 48-hour animation challenge AniJam UK has opened up the polls for the public to choose their favorite creations. More than 100 animators took part in the competition creating pieces based on the theme “Together,” and now the shortlisted teams are battling it out for cool prizes and special trophies. (View the films and vote at www.anijam.co.uk.)

The competition is presented by Anim18 and WONKY Films. Anim18 is a UK-wide celebration of British animation led by Film Hub Wales and Chapter (Cardiff), with the BFI Film Audience Network and many project partners. Regional heats were held throughout the summer from Bristol to Belfast at festivals and events, and the challenge will culminate in a prize-giving event at Manchester Animation Festival.

“WONKY have been really excited to see AniJam go national thanks to the brilliant regional partners taking part across the UK this year. We’ve very much enjoyed seeing how this year’s theme of ’Together’ has been so widely interpreted by all the teams. Following such an animation-packed summer, we can’t wait to finally watch them all come ’together’ on the big screen!” said Vicky Brophy of WONKY.

As well as the Public Choice Award, there will be a Grand Prix selected by a panel of industry experts, including representatives from key UK film and animation festivals, studios and organisations such as BAFTA Cymru and the BFI. Prizes include bespoke trophies created by Animation Toolkit, delegate tickets to key UK festivals, and distribution by ShortsTV.

Peter Knott, Area Director, Arts Council England, commented: “Arts Council England is very pleased to support Anim18 and the AniJam project which will allow established and emerging talent to create new and innovative work. It’s a great opportunity for the public to have their say, voting for the best ideas, as well as audiences across the country and online experiencing animation and the visual arts in new ways. It is funded by the National Lottery, which is your money being invested back into your project and we want as many people as possible to share in its benefits.”