THE Art and Soul Man worked hand in hand with Loreto Preparatory School pupils to create a mosaic to last their lifetimes.

Former Aintree secondary school Art teacher Chris Gilbert now completes faith-based art projects in schools nationwide and was helping the independent girls preparatory school in Dunham Road in Altrincham create a permanent mosaic to adorn the entrance to their main building.

Designed by the pupils and featuring the spirit of God in the shape of a dove of peace descending on the school, the mosaic is decorated round the rim with the value core values of Loreto Founder Mary Ward.

In the face of persecution, the ground-breaking campaigner travelled Britain and Europe in the late 16th century setting up Catholic schools based on the values of excellence, joy, freedom, justice, internationality, sincerity and truth, her life creating a rich religious and educational legacy which is evident worldwide today.

Chris said: “This project combines great creativity with exacting technical excellence giving every girl in the school the chance to make a contribution.

"Just like the Romans and civilisations even earlier, we have to create the pattern, choose the colour scheme, cut our glass to precise dimension, apply the glue and fix.”

Loreto Preparatory School Headmistress Anne Roberts said: “We want all our girls to be proud of their contribution to both the mosaic and our school; they have created a lasting legacy."