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AFTER six months of hard work children and adults from a coastal community have completed a mosaic seat inspired by their seaside location.

Art co-ordinator at Westlea Primary School in Seaham, Vicky Cathrine yesterday explained how the venture had come about.

“We had highlighted a need for a project in order to bring the community together in a positive way, to promote better relationships and quality of life.

“We also wanted to create a space to facilitate the meeting and communication of adults and children within the community,’’ said Miss Cathrine.

Stuart Flude was appointed lead artist on the project and proposed the making of a seat out of mosaics.

The school was then awarded £10,000 from the National Lottery and last June pupils, parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, teachers, dinner ladies and volunteers all began work on the ambitious venture.

Mr Flude was assisted by local artist Emma Beattie, and ceramic artist Marvin Kitshaw from the Muddy Fingers Pottery who all led the venture.

The mosaic seat features all manner of unusual underwater creatures from sharks to shellfish and also includes a wave of tumbled glass pebbles – a reminder of the old Bottle Works in Seaham Harbour.

Miss Cathrine added: “Throughout the project everyone involved has learned a great deal including the process of creating a design and building a mosaic.

“More importantly, however, everyone has learned the value of working together as a team, and that regardless of age or ability, each person’s contribution has equal significance.’’ Parent and volunteer at the school Vicky Mills said: “The results of everyone’s efforts is stunning and a credit to the community. It will be admired and used now for years to come.’’