ARTWORK produced by students at Torquay's Westlands School has won recognition from Bay police who help vulnerable victims of domestic and sex crime.

Photographs taken by students Sam Tyler and Andromeda Colman now grace the walls of the Vulnerable Adult Suite at Torquay Police Station.

The suite has undergone a major 'user-friendly' revamp to accommodate the growing number of victims of physical and mental abuse.

Det Insp Nick Wilden, who oversees the suite, said the artwork made a vital contribution to the 'homeliness' of the facility.

DI Wilden, a former pupil at the school, paid tribute to the talents of the students and their staff in creating work of great maturity.

"We were very pleased with the results, and that was why we felt their attitude and contribution deserved some recognition," he said.

He also thanked their teacher Trish Whillocks for her inspired input.

"There is absolutely no doubt the photographs in the new unit have greatly enhanced the environment," he said.

He added: "It is gratifying to work with the local community, particularly young people on a joint project of this kind. It demonstrates what can be done with such cooperation."

He also praised Karen Ralph, the station's Child Protection Unit manager, for her vision and determination in getting the project off the ground.

Last month Karen was awarded the Devon Police Commanders' Award for Services to Vulnerable Victims at a special ceremony in Powderham Castle.

DI Wilden also thanked local businessman Kevin Alexander, of Chelston Gallery, for providing the frames for the photographs.

And Avon representative Janet Pottinger was thanked for providing toiletries at the unit.

Det Chief Insp Ken Lamont, Devon's crime manager, presented Sam and Andromeda with their certificates.