THREE Bridgewater High School pupils illustrated their talents on the canvas after scooping top prizes against young artists across the region.

Stockton Heath residents Ellie Griffiths, 14, and Darcy Nolan, 13, along with Walton's Lily Ward, 13, won £175 in community competition Art Tastic, which was set up by Cheadle-based finance provider Together, after finishing in the top three.

Five entry categories covering all school key stages, plus college and university levels, were in place.

Entrants had to create an original piece of artwork that represented Together's core values of being 'passionate, accountable, customer-focused and exceptional'.

The three students, who will have their work displayed in a professional exhibition next year, beat off competition from talented children and teenagers to win the money.

Ellie won the £100 first prize, Lily £50 and Darcy £25, with the Appleton school also receiving an additional £250 following the pupils' impressive achievement.

Teacher Mrs Silver said: "I'm very proud of the students and delighted with the recognition for our school.

"It's great to see employers reaching out to schools in this way and it has given the students a real sense of achievement."

As well as receiving prize money, the winners' artwork will be displayed at Stockport Art Gallery for four weeks from February 18 before being moved to Together's head office at Cheadle Royal Business Park for permanent display.

Art Tastic was set up by Together's graduate trainees Clarissa Slinger, Cristina Dominte, Greg Scott and Gyan Quartey.

The judges at the event included artist Pietra Castellani, Katherine Rosati from Stockport Art Gallery and Together's human resource director Kevin Fisher.

Mr Fisher said: "We've been overwhelmed by the response and the quality of entries from a wide variety of schools, colleges and universities.

"It's great to see our company values represented in so many different ways."