Katarzyna Biśta, 15, is the creative force behind the dragon mascot and 10-year-old Gloria Goryl is responsible for the salamander which was added as a second mascot.

"Krakusek" the dragon won a popular vote online, but the Organising Committee liked "Sandra" the salamander so much that it too was adopted.

Organising Committee officials this month went to the schools of both to speak with the designers as well as their teachers.

Biśta goes to school in Trzebinia and Goryl - who told organisers a German shepherd dog, rather than salamander, was her first choice for the mascot - in Wojnicz.

They were presented with printed copies of their mascots, which are in the process of being brought to life and promise to be a central part of the visual identify of the third European Games.

Later, the artists will receive VIP tickets to the Kraków-Małopolska 2023 Opening and Closing Ceremonies, European Games gadgets and a personalised mascot as a reward.

Baku 2015 - the inaugural European Games - used a gazelle and a pomegranate for mascots.

Minsk 2019 had a fox mascot.

Kraków-Małopolska 2023 is due to open on June 23 next year, with events taking place across the Małopolska region.

A programme of 25 sports has been confirmed, with organisers hoping wrestling could still be added.