AN academy's end of year art exhibition has been hailed a tremendous success.

Students from New Rickstones Academy, in Conrad Road, Witham, displayed the best of their work at the first ever summer exhibition and presentation evening on Thursday, June 15.

Kara Morton, head of art and design at New Rickstones, said: "We were overwhelmed by the large number of parents, family members and students from all key stages.

"We displayed work throughout the department and we very pleased to open our brand new gallery space, giving the year 11 students a real sense of further and higher education exhibition space."

The most prestigious award of the night went to Emilie Mason, a year 11 pupil, for her coursework and final exam pieces.

She was presented with the David Spiller Trophy on the night.

Miss Morton said: "David Spiller is a wonderful local artist and author who donated the trophy to be awarded each year to the student who has shown exceptional attitude and ability.

"He was an amazing leader in education and always believed that students should be given every opportunity to be supported in the creative arts.

"Well done to all those involved who displayed art work and to the food technology department for the professional catering for the event, it was an amazing evening."