Whether it is talking through a Girelephant's bottom or playing a Spottygazoo, playtime just got even more interesting for foundation stage children at Maryport Infant School.

Ben Gates, the sound sculpturist, has been working with the younger children in the school creating music for their playground.

Between them, Ben and the children have designed a cross between a giraffe and an elephant.

As well as having a xylophone for a tummy, children can talk to teach other via its bottom and its trunk.

There is a large purple turtle with a musical back and a bit green musical "thing" that has been labelled the Spottygazoo for want of another name.

Tina Beddoe, headteacher, said work started on the sculptures before the summer holidays.

"The children had great fun working with Ben in designing them and now they are making lovely music.

"There is so much emphasis on reading, writing and maths these days - and rightly so - but I think sometimes the arts get squeezed out. There is no better way to appeal to children than through music and I feel everyone will benefit from these."