A MURAL which celebrates Darlington's history has been unveiled at a school.

The painting at McMullen House was produced by students and a professional artist over the course of a year.

It is a tribute to heroic Canadian airman William McMullen, who died to save residents in the Eastbourne area of Darlington, 60 years ago.

His Lancaster bomber developed engine trouble over the town and McMullen ordered his six-man crew to bail out.

But rather than jump to safety, he fought with the plane to fly it clear of the last of the houses.

Yesterday, the mural, at the school which bears his name, was unveiled by Darlington MP Alan Milburn, who added his signature to a painted plaque. Mr Milburn met some of the pupils who had created it.

As well as a picture of McMullen in his plane, the mural also depicts Darlington's brick train and Bank Top station, as well as images which represent student's lives.

Headteacher Liz Hemingway said: "The mural is out of this world and the day went superbly. Alan was wonderful with the kids."

Mr Milburn said: "I was really impressed with the quality of work, the time it had taken and the trouble and thoughts which had gone into this piece of artwork.

"It is something the students will be able to look back on for many years.

"I am very proud to have McMullen House in my constituency. The work it does for these pupils is exceptional. These are a wonderful bunch of kids with great leadership skills."