A GROUP of students have brought a splash of extra colour to a children’s hospital.

The team from Sussex Downs College in Eastbourne teamed up with children’s charity Rockinghorse to create a special mural for the Royal Alexandra in Brighton.

The group, who all study applied art and design, spent six weeks creating the wildlife-themed artwork in the hospital’s children’s emergency department.

It is hoped the painting will relieve any anxiety for children and parents in what can often be a stressful time.

Rockinghorse schools and community fundraising manager Liz McCluskey said: “ We are so pleased with the outcome of the mural. It has certainly surpassed our expectations and is a wonderful addition.

“The students have been a pleasure to work with and have really engaged in the project.

“We have received excellent feedback from staff at the Royal Alex and we hope it helps to create a more positive experience for children and their parents.”

Student Vita Measure-Hughes said: “I am hugely grateful for this opportunity and being able to give back to such a fantastic hospital that helped me a lot when I was younger.

“I hope our mural helps patients and families by making their stay a little bit easier, along with the wonderful staff.”

Rockinghorse is the official fundraising arm of the hospital.