VISITORS to an exhibition of everyday objects could be forgiven for thinking they have shrunk because of the larger-than-life exhibits.

The giant sculptures include mushrooms, a 6ft tap, 4ft candle, 3ft needle and thread, padlock, dice, poppy stem and paintbrush.

Smaller creations which grab the attention include papier mache heads, including one made of National Lottery tickets.

The exhibition has been staged by Stockton and Billingham College art students at Billingham Art Gallery.

They are on a one-year access course for adults aged over 21, which enables students to join related degree and other education courses.

Students took their inspiration from sculptor Claes Oldenburg, who created Middlesbrough's public Bottle of Notes sculpture.

Course tutor Simon Jackson said some artwork will go on permanent display at the Willie Maddren Centre, in Middlesbrough FC's Riverside Stadium.

The exhibition runs until Saturday, August 5, and is open Monday to Saturday, 9am-4.45pm