THERE was an explosion of colour at St Francis Hospice as 23 young artists took over for Fireworks and Feelings Art Day.

The event let bereaved youngsters produce a piece of art in memory of loved ones, which will be exhibited to the public.

Paul Sullivan, manager of the family support service, which organised the day on Saturday, said: “Using art as a therapeutic tool can provide children and young people with an unthreatening method of expressing themselves – they are often naturally artistic and creative, and therefore find that they can express their feelings with some crayons or paint more easily than they can through words.

“The art day not only allowed this free expression it also facilitated a safe environment where the children and young people met others who are in a similar situation, and could talk about their special person who had died.”

Laura Lingwood, nine, attended the art day with her sister, Amy, five.

Their dad Jim died aged 39 from cancer.

Laura said: “I really enjoyed the day, my favourite part was the arty crafty things, and eating the pizza for lunch. I made quite a lot of friends, and I’m looking forward to seeing my picture for dad framed at the exhibition.”

Mum Sharron, said: “They had such a lovely day, it was brilliant and so well organised. I think an important part of the day was the girls realising they’re not the only ones to go through what they’ve been through.”