Pupils a Pillar of strength in arts project

PRIMARY school children in Roslin have created a modern day Apprentice Pillar based on the one at Rosslyn Chapel, made famous in the Da Vinci Code.

Malcolm Cruikshank, Midlothian's craft artist-in-residence, initiated the project during a six-month residency at Roslin Primary School.

Under Mr Cruikshank's guidance, pupils came up with the idea of recreating the Apprentice Pillar, using metal and ribbon cut from plastic bags, which the children have embroidered with their school's name. Midlothian Training Services have also assisted in the pillar's construction.

Primary 7 pupil Sophie Gray said: "This project has been really good fun. I like art and have enjoyed being able to express myself through this work."

The other schools taking part in the initiative are Eastfield, Bonnyrigg, Rosewell and Cuiken House Primary Schools. All five artworks will be displayed next year at Midlothian Council's Fairfield House complex.