ARTISTIC Eastleigh students are starring in a national showcase in support of endangered wildlife.

Paintings by ten students from Crestwood College for Business and Enterprise have been selected for display with 190 pieces of art from schools across the country.

They will be featured in a special exhibition in aid of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF).

At a prestigious ceremony in London, Gary Linneker, captain of DSWF Young Friends, and TV wildlife presenter Saba Douglas-Hamilton presented prizes to students for their artistic contributions.

The Year 8 students also had a chance to meet acclaimed wildlife artist and conservationist David Shepherd.

The national competition was open to young people aged between eight and 16.

They were asked to create paintings, drawings, sculptures and collages on the theme of "fragile planet".

Representing Crestwood were: Esther Collyer, Jordan Dalton, Rebecca Boulton, Laura Morby, Zoe Carrett, Benjamin Eeles, Kimberley Ball, Danny Davey, Vivien Winkworth and Katherine Heward.

Prizes included a year's membership of Marwell Zoo, Daler Rowney art materials and an afternoon painting with David Shepherd.