YOUNG artists at a Weymouth school created their very own Arctic and Antarctic-themed masterpieces - on the pavement.

More than 100 students from Budmouth Technology College took part in the Young Pavement Artist of the Year 2007 competition on The Esplanade.

The winners will now be entered into the national contest, run by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, where judges will include representatives from the Royal Academy of Arts.

Budmouth Technology College art teacher Vikki Gibson said: "This year's event was a huge success. Students loved the opportunity to create art outside the classroom and worked really hard on their designs and skills to be selected to compete.

"This year's theme of the Arctic and Antarctic provided an excellent opportunity to teach students about environmental issues they may not have been aware of. We're very excited to be taking part in this fantastic art competition again this year."

Ellen Buckland was the Budmouth winner in the age seven to 11 category, while Chloe Lea was the star pupil in the 12 to 14 age group.

Chai Lam took the honours in the age 15 to 17 category, and year seven student Andrew Powell won a special award for artistic merit.

Year 8 pupils Annie Wait, Rhys Diplock, Aston Butcher, Owen Mulholland and Sam Leatham took the prize for their banner design.

Winners and runners-up in the national competition will receive their prizes at a ceremony in London in July.