HUGO Swire MP took time out from his ministerial duties to drop into Drakes School in East Budleigh to congratulate pupils and staff on being awarded the Artsmark Silver Award.

HUGO Swire MP took time out from his ministerial duties to drop into Drakes School in East Budleigh to congratulate pupils and staff on being awarded the Artsmark Silver Award.

Artsmark recognises schools that provide pupils with opportunities in the arts, dance, drama and music.

It follows a series of school arts projects including when pupils displayed paintings of their grandparents at Exeter Children’s Literary Festival.

Mr Swire said: “Drakes is an excellent school with enthusiastic staff and happy children.

“Schools like Drakes are so important. It’s the heart and soul of the community thanks to the hard work of head teacher Carron Saunders and chair of governors Marj.”