A SCHOOL has been delving into its sporting history following a three-month restoration of a 120-year-old painting of a rugby match,

The oil painting of a Durham School match in 1893, by artist TM Hemy, is thought to be one of the earliest paintings capturing school sport.

The school started looking at its history after starting the repair.

Andrew Beales, from Durham School said: “We were having a discussion about the school’s artefacts, and Mark Bedworth, the director of sport, came down with this wonderful picture, which had been in the PE department for as long as anyone can remember.

“We discovered the painting had been released as a black and white print on 31 October 1896, by Messrs. Mawson, Swan and Morgan, the famous Newcastle Fine Art dealers. The painting itself is dated 1894 next to the artists signature.

“It was in a state of disrepair – 120 years had taken its toll – but with the help of the Old Dunelmian Society and Old Dunelmian Lodge, we have been able to have it restored in order that this irreplaceable piece of Durham School history will remain for future generations.”

They have so far been unable to identify the other team as their strips do not match those of the teams which the school is recorded as having played during that season.

But by cross referencing the painting with team photographs from the time, it has been possible to confirm that it does feature several famous players, including Graham Campbell Kerr OD, the Scotland international.

TM Hemy, younger brother of acclaimed artist Charles, produced a series of sporting events, including one of a Sunderland match in 1895, which is displayed at the Stadium of Light.