THE final layer of paint has been added to a nature-inspired snowpuppy ready for an exhibition.

Children and parents at Middle Street Primary School, Brighton, showed off their creative streak with the help of a street artist.

Luke Cooke, known as Pinky, is painting two giant snowdogs for the charity art trail due to hit the city's streets later this year. He also took time out from decorating to help pupils bring their puppy to life.

Milly Aylmer, nine, of Upper North Street, had her snowpuppy design chosen by fellow classmates ,who felt hers was the best representation of the school.

Milly said: “My favourite subject is art and I especially like drawing flowers and people. I’m really proud that my design was chosen and the snowpuppy is pretty cool too.”

From climbing plants, flowers and a butterfly to a rainbow, sun and bright blue sky, Milly’s design takes its inspiration from nature. The clouds are filled with tiny self-portraits of each of the 200 pupils.

Using a combination of spray paint, school poster paint and collage, groups of schoolchildren have been staying after school to decorate the model. It will join 20 others designed by schools in exhibitions in city museums later in the year to accompany the trail, which is raising money for the Martlets Hospice.

Reception teacher Meg Glyn-Wright said: “The painting has been a real team effort and we love that every pupil has contributed. It’s been a great initiative to be a part of, not only because art is an important part of a child’s creative learning process, but it also means they can make their mark in the wider community."

She said the project was significant for everyone at the school after a teaching assistant was cared for by the Martlets before she died last year and the decorating was carried out in her memory.

The shop Artrepublic sponsored a full sized sculpture as well as this school's puppy.

Pinky, who lives in Hove, hopes the Snowdog campaign will inspire young people to pursue their creative passions.

He said: "It’s always positive when the children are able to explore and express their creativity. I hope by taking part in the trail more will be inspired to pursue art in later life. Working with the Martlets reminds me life can be short and everyone should do more of what they love."

The Argus is the official media partner for the Martlets project. For information visit snowdogsbythesea.co.uk.