THE legend of the Lugg mermaid is the theme of a colourful mosaic designed by pupils of Marden Primary School.

The piece is a re-interpretation of the school badge, with the crenellations representing the church tower and the arches symbolising the bridge over the Lugg.

The story goes that the bell depicted in the centre of the mosaic fell into the river and became home to a mermaid. When they tried to salvage the bell with teams of oxen, local people woke the mermaid, who dragged it back into the water.

The legend perhaps relates to the massive 11th or 12th century ecclesiastical bell discovered next to the church in 1848.

The pupils were helped in their creative endeavours by teachers of art Justin Hamm and Marie Duke, known collectively as 'Jam Tarts', who travel round schools offering their expert services.

The mosaic will be displayed on the wall of the school.