CHILDREN from Thornbury's Crossways Junior School drew inspiration from the work of celebrated artist David Hockney this week when they took part in art and writing sessions at the town's Octagon gallery.

The gallery at the Castle School is currently hosting a touring exhibition of Hockney's interpretations of stories by the Brothers Grimm and the Crossways youngsters were invited along to particuipate in special creative writing and illustration workshops

Castle School English teacher Tamara Pullin said: "This was the first time a local school has been able to work in the gallery in this way and it was very exciting. Some our sixthformers also got involved and around 50 Crossways Year Four children enjoyed a variety of writing and art experiences.

"They produced some really interesting work and it's something that will certainly be repeated."

Hockney's 39 etchings - drawn directly onto copperplates in 1969 - have been brought to Thornbury as part of a national touring exhibition organised by the Hayward Gallery.

The exhibition runs until March 11 and is open Monday to Friday (10am-5pm). Admission is free.