A GROUP of students from Lithuania have spent a week in east Cleveland polishing up their language skills and teaching youngsters about their culture.

Sigita Tamasiunaite, Rasa Jurgaityte and Algirdas Javtokas are all students at the University of Siauliai and enjoyed the week in England thanks to funding by the Guisborough and Great Ayton Rotary Club.

Rasa, a third year Economics student, spent time in the Languages department of Laurence Jackson School in Guisborough, Algirdas, a third year Physics student has been working in Sotheron's in Redcar.

Sigita, a second year English Language student, helped out at Northgate Junior School in Guisborough and became involved in events taking place at the school for National Children's Art Day.

Sigita was joined by students from Laurence Jackson School and Prior Pursglove College, who went along to lend their support.

Events included making chalk pictures in the playground, making wicker sculptures and a stage designer came in to work with older pupils.

The event aims to highlight the value of art in schools and help develop links with artists and galleries.

Sigita says she has enjoyed her visit to Guisborough and is mesmerised by the Cleveland Hills.