PUPILS at neighbouring village schools have added an artistic touch as a reminder of parish jubilee celebrations.

A 2003 calendar produced by Esh Parish Council features the art work of youngsters at three local primary schools.

Each month on the calendar is accompanied by pictorial portrayals of historical events of the 50 years of the Queen's reign.

Pupils at Langley Park Primary, Esh Church of England and Esh Laude Roman Catholic schools each contributed drawings.

Other contributions are on Christmas cards produced by the parish.

The calendar was launched at An Evening of Pure Nostalgia, at Langley Park Primary School last night.

It featured archive film footage of the region, songs from the six decades of the Queen's reign, performed by chanteuse Holly Wood, folk musician Charlie Fleming, as well as musical entertainment by pupils from the three schools.

There was also a display of local historical photographs and maps, provided by the Durham County Record Office.

All the pupils at the schools have received a copy of the calendar as a souvenir of the event.

They are available for £2.50, while the accompanying Christmas cards can be bought for £1.75, at each of the schools, from Esh and Langley Park post offices, Londis and Reay's newsagents in Langley Park, or by contacting parish clerk Mike Ackroyd, on 0191-373 6687, 384 3799 or 373 1876.