Creative Sidmouth College students who gave a seafront landmark a much-needed makeover will see their efforts live on for years to come.

Sidmouth Herald: shs 3361-30-14TI Mural 1shs 3361-30-14TI Mural 1 (Image: Archant)

Youngsters gave up their free time to paint boards and help revitalise the Ham car park which, with the TIC, is a go-to point for visitors and was criticised by competiton judges.

Armed with paint brushes, they took inspiration from Sidmouth’s beautiful flowers, its twin town, Le Locle, and the sea, working in the diverse styles of Picasso, Patrick Caulfield, Fiona Rae and Hokusai.

Art and photography teacher Penny Roberts, who coordinated the year seven, eight and nine volunteers, said: “I am really proud of the hard work and persistence displayed by these students to get these murals ready.

“[Their] commitment has been phenomenal – many of them have missed a proper lunch break for months!

Sidmouth Herald: shs 3361-30-14TI Mural 3shs 3361-30-14TI Mural 3 (Image: Archant)

“Their work is now on display and is an exciting beacon for the college to show off the amazing achievements and hard work shown by these very talented and committed students.”

The work was requested by Sidmouth in Bloom (SiB) leaders after comments from South West in Bloom judges on the state of the algae-covered walls.

The students were chosen ahead of a bid from the Probation Service that was rejected by Sidmouth Town Council.

SiB chairman Lynette Talbot said: “We’re really pleased with how they’ve turned out and I know the children are thrilled to see them up.

“It’s been a real learning experience for them to interpret Sidmouth in the style of different artists.

“We would like to thank all the students for their huge endeavour and Sidmouth Town Council for painting the wall.”

She paid thanks to everyone who made the project possible.

A fifth board is due to be installed soon, together with an interpretation board.

SiB is funding the redecoration of the boards in a two-year project with the school, allowing other year groups to paint the remaining four panels.