A COLLEGE is playing a key role in the launch of a festival to celebrate the culture and lifestyle of Japan.

Japan 2001, a national event supported by the Government, is designed to foster greater understanding between Japan and the UK and to forge friendship links between the two countries.

To set the scene, students on the BTEC Diploma in Art and Design course at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, have painted tubular banners for display on lampposts around the town.

The 20 hand-painted banners, sponsored by Darlington Borough Council and the Japan Festival Fund, have been designed to publicise Japan 2001.

They can be seen in Duke Street, Crown Street, Grange Road, Coniscliffe Road and St Cuthbert's Way.

Students' sculptures, with a Japanese theme, will be on display in Ottakar's book shop window and the Art Shop until October 8.

The college's key event is a three-week residency from Monday of Japanese artist Matsumoto.

He will work with students and local school pupils to produce a variety of artworks, culminating in a huge installation and exhibition at the college from October 15 to 19.

Rita Smith, director of creative arts at the college, said: "Our involvement in Japan 2001 is a wonderful opportunity for our students and for Darlington, and in the current climate it is especially important to make friends with people from different cultures."