Budding young artists showcased their creativity to a “packed” gallery at the start of a month-long exhibition.

On Friday (January 29) the Loughton Arts Centre in Lopping Hall, High Road, displayed the works by pupils from the Oak-Tree schools – Oaklands in Loughton, Coopersale Hall School in Epping, Normanhurst School in Chingford and Braeside School in Buckhurst Hill.

The private viewing saw the year 11 pupils and their families fill the gallery, breaking the record for the most people attending the venue.

A variety of pieces created for GCSE courses were on display, including paintings and prints.

Year 11 pupil James said: “It is important to have an event like this because it really shows you how much creativity there is in our schools.”

The Oak-Tree pieces will be shown until Friday (February 5) and form part of the month-long Loughton Young Artists exhibition.

Speaking at the viewing, year 11 pupil Annabelle said: “The work looked amazing in a gallery.

“The preview was packed and there was a really good atmosphere.”