TALENTED children at Renfrewshire schools drew high praise from Paisley artist John Byrne after taking part in a prestigious contest.

Pupils at Thorn Primary, in Johnstone, St Peter’s Primary, in Paisley, and Park Mains High, in Erskine, were among those who enjoyed success in this year’s John Byrne National Drawing Competition.

The event is open to schools across the country, with this year’s entries described as some of the best yet.

Jennifer McLean, of St Peter’s Primary, was highly commended for her artwork, while Thorn Primary pupil Harley Bell and Nicole Harvey, of Park Mains High, were named runners-up.

Artist and playwright Mr Byrne, best known for his Slab Boys trilogy, said: “I’m encouraged by the standard of artwork submitted and I hope pupils will continue to show their love for drawing.”

The awards ceremony took place at Paisley Museum, where an exhibition featuring competition entries will be on display for the next month.