AN artistic Oldswinford student is celebrating after making the top three of Worcester Cathedral’s King John portrait exhibition.

Twelve-year-old Kelvin Coker, a pupil at Old Swinford Hospital School, was awarded a £25 GreatArt voucher after being one of the runners-up in the under 18 competition.

Kelvin’s entry into the exhibition, part of a series of events to mark the 800th anniversary of King John’s death and burial at Worcester Cathedral, was a contemporary double portrait comprising a 3D mask and painting.

The year 8 student said: “I really didn’t expect to win a prize and look forward to spending the vouchers on some art material.

“I am so happy that my painting has been seen by so many people in such a magnificent cathedral.”

Emily Pincher, the school’s head of art, said: “I am delighted for Kevin who spent many hours creating his piece during Art Club, which is one of the many co-curricular activities available at OSH.”

The judges, artist and cathedral education officer Sara Hayward, portrait artist Francesca Currie and King John actor Philip Leach, had to make the difficult decision as they chose between the 60 portraits forming part of the exhibition.

Mrs Hayward added: “There was a very high standard of entries. The winners in each category really stood out, getting to grips with King John’s unique and difficult character.

“They also showed exceptional handling of media and visitors will see portraits in oils, water colours, collage.”