CHILDREN as young as seven opened their own history exhibition yesterday.

The primary school children were inspired by the history of their home town of Hartlepool to produce models, drawings and paintings of the past.

Their work, containing everything from ships to sea monsters, is now on display at the Museum of Hartlepool.

Rossmere Primary School pupils, aged seven to ten, have been making weekly visits after school to explore the museum and its artefacts.

They were inspired by relics and stories from the town, including tales of the sea and the Hartlepool Monkey legend.

Kate Ainger, assistant education officer for Hartlepool Arts and Museums service, said: "The museum is a real treasure trove of fascinating items and a fun place to visit.

"The after-school club helps to introduce young people to the magic of museums and gives them the opportunity to boost their creativity in an unusual environment."

The children's work will be on display until Sunday, January 30.

Published: 21/01/2005