Yarmouth pupils make masks to celebrate Mardis Gras

Youngsters at Great Yarmouth's Edward Worlledge Junior School have well and truly shaken off the winter blues with their bright and cheery Mardi Gras masks and head-dresses.

The pupils have been working for the past six weeks with Sheringham artist Kate Munro to create them for Yarmouth's second King Street Mardi Gras which takes place from 4pm to 6pm on Tuesday.

Their designs have also been turned into printed lampshades for 100 lights that will decorate a marquee at the event which will feature entertainment and food and customs with an international theme.

Kate said: 'The children were working on the Mardi Gras theme of winter being chased away by spring. They were really enthusiastic and produced some great work – parents even came along and joined in.'

The King Street Mardi Gras, which will feature international street artists working with the local community, celebrates the multi cultural nature of the town and marks the 12-month countdown to the opening of the redeveloped St George's chapel as a multi-purpose arts venue.

The St George's development, led by internationally renowned architects, Hopkins Partners, will feature a specifically designed outdoor plaza and performance area to the south side of the chapel.

The intention is that St George's will deliver a year-round programme of events and activities, providing the community with a purpose built venue and attracting new audiences to the town.

Pictured is seven-year-old Sophie Green with other Edward Worlledge Junior pupils in their Mardi Gras masks. photo: andy darnell