Cleveland College of Art and Design students helped youngsters with special needs create costumes and paper mache masks inspired by children’s books.

A group of 22 first year extended diploma art and design learners spent a day in June with five to 11-year-old pupils from Springwell School, in Hartlepool.

They helped the youngsters, who had a variety of special needs, create costumes and paper mache masks inspired by popular children’s books including The Gruffalo, by Julia Donaldson.

The children showed off their finished costumes to the students in a parade at the end of the day.

Course leader for art and design Amanda Smith said: “The students have grown massively in self-esteem through delivering these workshops at the school. They supported the children incredibly well.”

Cap- Springwell School pupil Liam Horner, aged six, wears a hat inspired by The Graffalow and art. Also pictured is design student Chelsea Hammersley, 18