TODDLERS have brought nature into their play centre with a mural made of animal footprints.

Babies, children, parents and carers used their talents to create a wall-hanging for the Footsteps Children's Centre, in Billingham.

Artists Darren Cairns and Jane Gaunt, of creative arts team Scribbly Artz, designed the mural, which parents agreed should include a range of materials, textures and mediums.

It was designed on a nature theme, focusing on a variety of animal footprints.

The team worked in the centre for three weeks, when families and staff were invited to drop in at any time and add to the creation.

Also taking part in creating the mural were children from the adjoining Stepping Stones Nursery.

Centre manager Barbara Brookes said: "We are so proud of the finished artwork, and it will be a real asset to our centre for years to come."

Mr Cairns said: "We had a good couple of weeks when everybody got involved at some point to produce a really tactile mural that they are proud of doing. The artwork turned out superbly."

Councillor Alex Cunningham, Stockton Borough Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said "It's great when the arts community can work with even our youngest children to create something special, and I'm sure the mural will bring many years of pleasure to families in Billingham."