NORMAL lessons were put on hold this week as pupils at Warminster Prep School were given the chance to explore their artistic sides.

The school held its fourth annual art festival with the theme of "Around the World" and all the arts, from drama and literature to painting and sculpture were celebrated.

Other local schools were also involved in the activities and had artwork displayed or entered competitions. Judy Boyt, an equine sculptor who designed a trophy for the Badminton Horse Trials, arrived to present prizes at Friday's winners' concert and other guests have popped in throughout the week.

Narrative sculptor Edwina Bridgeman spent an afternoon in the school while Mike McElya, from the Sunshine Drumming Company, took the children on a rhythmic tour around the world. Other activities included prose readings, wacky waistcoat designs and miniature gardens.

Headteacher Peter Hollinswaite said the children had thoroughly enjoyed their week of art. "This is my first year as head. I've heard much about the art festival but nothing had prepared me for the size of the whole event and the scale of the activities," he said.

"The quality of the work is phenomenal. The school has been alive with creative spirit and I'm so proud of the children for the efforts they have made and the pride they have taken in their work."

He said special thanks had to go to Denise Nias, head of English, Maria Chambers, head of art and Kerry Bishop, head of music, for arranging the event.