ARTISTIC pupils at Penketh High School gave up their weekend, picked up their paintbrushes, and created a special mural to be viewed by Warrington's public transport users.

In October last year, the art department at the school in Heath Road was asked by the borough council to produce a mural that could be exhibited in the town's bus station.

More than 30 gifted pupils, ranging from Year Eight children to college students, took part in the project.

The gifted youngsters used Warrington's buildings as a theme, incorporating landmarks such as Crosfield's and St Elphin's Parish Church.

Allyson Jenkins, head of art and design, said: "The pupils are very eager and are really proud of what they have achieved.

"They are excited, and have been bringing their friends up to have a look at it.

"It has been a real team effort."

The finishing touches are now being added to the mural, and it will be presented to representatives from the council in March before being put into place at the bus station in April.

And following the success of the venture, the school hopes to continue to use its creative streak usefully by producing murals for local companies.

The projects would aim to help promote businesses, while giving youngsters a chance to get a grasp of the role of business both in the community and in the wider economy of the country.

A school spokesman added: "We feel that involving young people with their community is a valuable exercise."