A SCULPTURE which pupils lent a hand to build has been unveiled in the school grounds.

For the last two months staff and pupils of Our Lady & St John's High School, in North Road, Blackburn, have looked on as the new addition to the courtyard took shape.

The sculpture, constructed from concrete, tiles and mosaic, is the creation of Stephen Charnock, an artist from Ormskirk, who specialises in making works of art for public spaces.

Funded by Groundwork, who along with members of staff selected Stephen's work for its originality and durability. The shell sculpture also compliments the courtyard setting, reflecting other previous works of art which are of a nautical theme.

Year 10 pupils were encouraged to participate in the project, helping Stephen select a suitable site, making tiles and decorating the surface of the sculpture with mosaics.

Simon Brook, head of art at the school said: "Working with Stephen has given the children a once in a life time experience. I hope it has inspired them to develop their own talents further and realise the potential for art in our every day environment."

Stephen is currently developing more works of art for the new look Blackburn Railway Station.

Picture: Students with the sculpture they helped to build.