Smiling, lively faces have brightened up a derelict building.

Anston House, opposite Preston Park in London Road, Brighton, has stood empty for more than 17 years.

But Year 10 art students from Brighton College, who are doing projects based on the work of artist Henri Matisse, have helped spruce up the eyesore.

The students produced self portraits in the style of Matisse which now cover the building's broken windows.

Student Douglas Albon, 15, said: "It's great for everyone to see what we've been working towards since September.

"I never thought my work would be on display on a derelict building and so prominently."

In February, a letter published in The Argus said the building was "possibly the ugliest in Sussex".

Several plans to develop Anston House have been put forward but none has been implemented because of the lack of demand for office space in Brighton.

A spokesman for owners Anston Properties Limited said: "We have been patiently waiting for some 17 years to redevelop the property with offices but are delighted we took advantage of involving local art students to improve the appearance of this derelict building."