A NEW £20,000 gallery showcasing the work of Cromer Junior School pupils has been officially opened by town mayor Hilary Thompson.Situated outside the school hall, the gallery, which replaces a former reading area, has new flooring and lighting, and includes a series of hinged frames, as well as free-standing central unit for displaying three-dimensional work.

A NEW £20,000 gallery showcasing the work of Cromer Junior School pupils has been officially opened by town mayor Hilary Thompson.

Situated outside the school hall, the gallery, which replaces a former reading area, has new flooring and lighting, and includes a series of hinged frames, as well as free-standing central unit for displaying three-dimensional work.

It was the idea of deputy headteacher Whil de Neve, who wanted pupils and school visitors to be able to see a changing display of work from across the curriculum.

Guests at Friday's opening included staff from neighbouring schools, Cromer's deputy mayor Yvonne Nolan, parents and Cromer Juniors' chairman of governors John Simpson.

The event coincided with the school's fifth annual live arts week, which this year saw pupils work on animation, painting, college and crafts inspired by a travelling circus camped out in a nearby field.

Pupils were invited by Circus Ferrel owners Martin and Lynette to attend circus skills workshops, with around 60 youngsters performing in the big top to a weekend audience.

Arts week organiser Mr de Neve said that, for many pupils, having a chance to spend a whole week concentrating solely on the arts had been the highlight of the year.

“The children are absolutely exhausted, but they are all smiling,” he added.

“It has been an opportunity for those who don't usually enjoy things like maths and reading to spend time doing something they can really excel at.”

Headteacher Steve Godson hoped the addition of a gallery would encourage pupils to take pride in their work.

“It will give us a chance to show the best work in the school, not just art, but everything from geography to ICT, and, as well as celebrating the broad curriculum we offer, it will encourage our pupils to achieve their best,” he said.