Youngsters are celebrating their first brush with success after being given a prestigious Arts Council award.

Scargill Infant School, in Mungo Park Road, Rainham has been awarded the Artsmark Gold Award, highest achievement for the arts.

It is given for exceptional achievements across art, dance, drama and music, and so far, Scargill is the only Havering infant school to receive the award.

The external assessment report highlighted the broad number of arts on offer and how they introduce children to different cultures.

Kath Keeper, headteacher, said: “The staff have always worked with enthusiasm and pride on all aspects of our arts.

“I am delighted that deputy head, Judy Munford, has led the school to achieve this award and our thanks go to her along with all the other staff.”