YOUNGSTERS have been celebrating the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland - by creating a giant mural inspired by the book.

One hundred pupils from a dozen local infant, junior and senior schools played a part in creating the six-metre artwork that has been unveiled by Lockwood’s restaurant in Ripon.

The mural was commissioned by the restaurant as a community art project for the city, where Alice author Lewis Carroll spent part of his childhood and from which he took inspiration.

Restaurant owner Matthew Lockwood and the mayor of Ripon, Cllr Pauline McHardy, unveiled the mural, which depicts eat-and-drink scenes for the children’s classic.

“This is a first for Ripon to have this large community artwork. It is clear that all the children and teachers worked very hard to bring this to fruition, and I’d like to personally thank them for bringing this to life,” said Mr Lockwood.

“It is great that so many schools and have taken part. The standard of the paintings is very high. It is a beautiful commemoration of our link to the world famous book.”

Cllr McHardy added: “This looks like it has been a labour of love for the local schools. The final mural looks amazing and suitably celebrates the 150th anniversary. Well done to everyone who has made this part of our local community for everyone to enjoy.”