STAFF and pupils at two schools are celebrating after winning an award for the quality of their arts programmes.

Framwellgate Moor and Neville's Cross primary schools, both in Durham City, have been presented with the Artsmark award by Arts Council England.

Framwellgate Moor Primary, which was awarded gold status, employed Andrew Bushnell and Mark Earndendon to work with their pupils integrating art, healthy eating and language, while Pippa Bell worked with children to appraise art and to discover feelings and opinions developed from art and sculpture.

Headteacher Diane Buckle said: "I am delighted that the Arts Council has recognised Framwellgate Moor Primary's progressive arts education programme, which encourages pupils to work with local artists."

Neville's Cross Primary School, which received a silver award, provides tuition in everything from country dancing and pottery to clarinet and double bass, as well as art, music and drama lessons.

Headteacher Hazel Bullock said: "We want to encourage the creativity of our children and use that throughout the curriculum.

"This award will spur us on to develop our curriculum further by involving local artists and musicians to complement the super work done by the staff in school."