YOUNGSTERS from a North-East school helped to launch a national campaign yesterday to encourage people to start drawing.

The pupils from Croft Church of England Primary School in Croft were invited to the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum to take part in The Big Draw.

The week-long campaign is encouraging people of all ages to pick up a pencil and appreciate the benefits of drawing.

Darlington-born author and illustrator Liz Million joined the pupils to help with their works of art.

She said:"It is always great to see young artists being excited about painting and drawing, especially on such a large scale. Anything that fires their imagination and enthusiasm has got to be a good thing, so it's full steam ahead."

Museums and galleries around the North-East and North Yorkshire are joining in with drawing activities and this Saturday, they will all take part in a world record attempt.

The aim is to get as many people as possible drawing at the same time for 60 seconds. For details about local events, log on to www.drawingpower.org.uk or telephone (0208) 3511719.