Winning children's bench competition designs unveiled
BCP CouncilCrabs, seagulls, ospreys and snails were among the inspiration for five schoolchildren who have seen their winning designs for park benches unveiled in a park.
Four new benches were installed in Hamworthy Play Park in Poole, Dorset, after a design competition for children from Twin Sails Infant School and Hamworthy Park Junior School.
The new benches are part of a series of artworks, including sculptures and a mural, due to be installed across Hamworthy using funding from central government.
Susannah Hill, executive head teacher for the Federation of Hamworthy Primary Schools, said it was an "incredible experience" for the students.
"The enthusiasm and participation from our children across the whole Federation was truly inspiring," she said.
More than 700 pupils took part in the competition. Five of the children's designs were chosen to be made into four benches by local artists.
One of the winners, Theo, said his bench was made of "snails and the sunshine" while another, Casey-Jayne, said she wanted to design a bench featuring ospreys, her favourite wild animal.
Fellow winner Antosh said he was inspired by the seagulls while Raphael took his inspiration from the crabs he had seen in Hamworthy and Lauren said her idea came from the flowers in the park.
'Beauty and character'
Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council's environment lead Andy Hadley said the benches were "a fantastic addition" to the park.
He said: "One of the many benefits of installing artwork in parks is that the experience is free for the whole community.
"Outdoor art adds beauty and character to our public spaces, making them more appealing and enjoyable for residents and visitors."
Ms Hill said there were benefits for the students too.
"Seeing the children's winning competition entries brought to life as benches in our local park really does validate the children's work," she said.
"It was a joy to watch the children's smiles as they saw their creativity celebrated in a lasting and meaningful way."
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