County display for pupils' art

ASPIRING artists at three Dover schools will soon be given their chance to shine thanks to a new exhibition in Maidstone.

Pupils from Astor college for the arts and both the boys' and girls' grammar will have paintings and drawings in the display - due to be put up in Kent County Council's county gallery next month.

The exhibition forms part of the county-wide John, Downton awards for young artists scheme - which gives students a chance to compete with others as well as to show their work.

A panel of judges will choose the best work from the display and will also be presenting a trophy to the best overall school from the 37 taking part.

KCC cabinet member Sarah Hohler said: "It is very important that we support and reward young artists in Kent. The county gallery is an excellent venue to showcase their ideas and I am looking forward to judging the work on display." The exhibition will run from next Thursday until Friday April 30 and admission is free.