A new Viking-themed sculpture has been unveiled at Queen Elizabeth II High School to commemorate its 40th anniversary.

To mark the Peel school’s opening in 1979, students collaborated with wood carver Gavin Carter to produce the towering piece that has been designed to resemble the prow of a Viking longboat - inspired by the school’s logo.

The piece is made of elm sourced from the area and took Mr Carter and the pupils, who were aged 11 to 16, three weeks to complete at the end of the summer term.

Celtic designs were carved into the main body by the students with the head being carved by the artist.

A spokesman for the school said: ’Gavin works with locally-sourced materials and takes his inspiration from nature, local history and culture.

’He takes the time to explain his processes and ideas with the young people with whom he works and has ignited a passion for creativity in many of those he has worked with.

’Students have fed back that they found working on this project to be a very positive experience.

’Not only have they learned a new skill, but have also had the opportunity to be a part of a team that creates a large-scale work of art that will remain on display withing the school community long after they have left.’

The spokesman added: ’Sculpting with wood is a highly rewarding experience that encourages creativity and challenges our students to develop new skills.

’Unfortunately it is not something we can easily offer as part of our curriculum.’

The high school was opened on July 5, 1979, by Queen Elizabeth II while she was visiting the island to celebrate the millennium of Tynwald.