An oil painting by a celebrated artist is to be auctioned off to raise money for a school’s new playground equipment.

The piece, entitled School Run, shows Woodingdean Primary School shortly before morning lessons.

Artist Tony Parsons, whose five-year-old son Eddie goes to the school, was recently chosen to appear in the Royal Society for Marine Artists Exhibition in London.

He has donated the painting to be auctioned.

The 36-year-old said: “The view up there in the morning can be inspiring.

“Hopefully the painting will raise money for the playground.”

The 40cm by 50cm painting is professionally framed. Similar paintings have previously sold for between £450 and £1,200.

The deadline for bids is December 19 at 9am. Bids should be submitted to school reception in an envelope marked “silent auction bid”.

Make sure you include your name, contact number and the amount you wish to bid.

Alix Macfarlane, chairwoman of the parents, teachers and friends association, said: “We are grateful to Tony for sharing his talent.

“It’s an exceptionally generous donation.”