A NEW mural that captures the essence of the rich and natural beauty of the Wiltshire countryside has recently been completed at a primary school.

Salisbury artist Francesca McLean created the mural at Pitton CoE Primary School in Whiteway. 

The school says the mural, which shows the countryside and wildlife, ties in with its approach to environmental sustainability.

Headteacher Emma Wilkinson said: "Supported by the Friends of Pitton School, we worked with pupils and parents to explore how we could celebrate the beautiful wildlife and countryside that surrounds our school. 

“The mural project that resulted created a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with nature and encouraged their own creativity with each pupil being given a copy of the mural design to colour themselves. The experience has really added to the wonderful community spirit within the school.

"The children were so excited to see the mural come to life. The project sparked their inquisitiveness and interest in the natural environment."

The painting was designed to promote pupils' understanding of the natural wildlife around them. 

She added: "It was important to the children that their class names of Wrens, Woodpeckers, Hawks, and Kites, be incorporated in the design. We were delighted to find Francesca - a local artist - who has brought this vision alive. Francesca created the most beautiful depiction of the woodland landscape that surrounds us and incorporated all the things that the children hold so dear." 

READ MORE: Salisbury's Royal British Legion Club reopens with £30k refurbishment

Francesca is an illustrator and designer based close to Salisbury on the edge of the New Forest and she says she is inspired by the vibrant colours, and beautiful patterns found in nature.  

She said: “My aim was to create a mural to echo the beautiful natural backdrop surrounding Pitton School. I wanted the mural to feel like a continuation of the rolling hills and woodland that surround the school, capturing the different wildlife species and changing seasons.

“It was great to contribute to the school's environmental vision, further prompting the children's interest in their surroundings."