THE history of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal inspired students to create colourful murals which have brightened empty shops in Burnley.

Media studies students from Marsden Heights Community College in Nelson, and the Faith Centre in Burnley, spent two months working with a professional photographer to compile a set of images representing the historical and natural features of the canal.

As well as developing their keen eye for detail, the students went on a canal boat trip and visited the Weavers’ Triangle Visitor Centre to learn more about the history of the waterway.

The photographs have now been converted into a series of colourful murals which can be seen in shop windows on Trafalgar Street, Burnley.

Emma Bartlet, Burnley canal communities officer at the Canal and River Trust said: “It has been great to see how the young students involved in this project have been inspired by the canal and by working with Scott Kershaw, the photographer.

“They’ve taken photos that are of a very high quality, which has helped lift the look of these empty shops in such a creative way.

“The posters will be on display for several months and will hopefully be seen by thousands of people, demonstrating what an amazing and interesting place the canal in Burnley is.”

On Saturday, the Lancashire Telegraph revealed how plans for Sandygate Square, at the heart of the Weavers’ Triangle development, were being progressed with a footbridge, amphitheatre and canalside terrace planned.

Councillor Shah Hussain, Burnley Council’s executive member for economic development and regeneration said: “The Weavers’ Triangle is undergoing huge transformations as part of one of the largest, most exciting heritage-led regeneration schemes in the country, transforming this stretch of the canal into a vibrant and unique destination for business, leisure and education, under the new brand name ‘On the Banks’.”