STUDENTS have created an array of artwork to help create the right ambience at a North-East hospice.

Embroidered butterflies, fabric screens, glassware, lifestyle furniture and decorative window hangings now adorn the brand new Woodlands annexe at St Teresas Hospice in Darlington.

The unit works with people with life-threatening illnesses and is pioneering work with children whose parents are coming to terms with terminal conditions.

Students from Cleveland College of Art & Design were joined by colleagues from the Universities of Sunderland and Teesside and Newcastle College.

Cleveland College of Art & Design student Kelly Thackray, who is studying contemporary textile practice, produced a butterfly screen for the room.

"I wanted the piece to be delicate and fragile to reflect the work that goes on in the unit," said Kelly, 21, of Hartburn, Stockton. "It is quite emotional working in the unit but nice to do something that will contribute subtly to peoples lives."

At a special presentation event chairman of the hospice Alasdair MacConachie told the students: "You have done a stunning job and your support is greatly appreciated. The art makes a huge difference to the ambience of the unit and will be appreciated by staff, patients and their families."