THE work of talented young artists at Thornbury's Castle School will soon be adorning the walls of local shops and offices thanks to a pioneering new scheme aimed at introducing school art to a wider audience.

The school's Art for Offices scheme will enable local businessess to borrow students' artwort - already framed and ready for hanging - for display in their offices or shop premises for up to six months, free of charge.

"We're always looking for new ways to celebrate the high quality artwork produced by our students," said Andrea Hazlehurst, community art teacher at the school, which became a specialist visual arts college 18 months ago.

"There is some great work being done here right across the age range and we want it to be seen by as many people as possible.

"Firms will be able to view and reserve artwork on line and borrow as many paintings, drawings or prints as they like. There will be no charge and the artwork will be delivered to them and collected at the end of the loan period.

"Businesses may want to display work in a reception area or a foyer - anywhere where it's likely to give pleasure to staff, visitors or customers."

Andrea said the art department had been building up a supply of students' best work and now had around 100 pieces ready to go out as soon as the scheme gets underway next month.

Firms interested in supporting the scheme or finding out more should call Ros Bayston on 01454 862187 or write to her at the school in Park Road, Thornbury, BS35 1HT.