THE father of the late television artist and entertainer Mark Speight visited a school to continue his son's legacy.

Oliver Speight and volunteers from Speight Of The Art, a foundation established in Mark's memory, visited Coppice Special School in Newcastle for a day of art and activities.

The 42-year-old, who died in 2008, was best known for presenting the children's art programme SMart.

And his father said the BBC received more than 26,000 emails and letters of condolence following his son's death.

Mr Speight added: "It made me realise the energy had to go on because the children all loved him for his art.

"This foundation is his heritage and a journey we're continuing. We want to reach the level where can offer scholarships and maybe have a Mark Speight School of Art and Entertainment."

The special school requested a Chinese-themed day of art from their visitors to usher in the Chinese New Year.

Alongside traditional arts and crafts, the 97 pupils had the chance to write Chinese characters, listen to Chinese music and brush up on their Tai Chi.

Mr Speight, from near Telford, added: "It was a sensational morning and we received a great welcome. It was good to see the teachers and children working together.

"On the surface these children may appear disadvantaged but we come in here and, gently, make a connection and unlock their potential."

One of the Speight Of The Art volunteers was street artist Chris Clarkson.

The 30-year-old was voted the most popular living statue at the World Statue Championships in Arnhem, Holland, last year by a crowd of 300,000 people.

He showed off his award-winning skills when he greeted students by appearing as a living statue in the school hall.

Chris, from Manchester, said: "To work with the children is so rewarding because you get an instant reaction.

"Within seconds of them coming into the hall they were wondering whether I was real or fake, waving at me and telling me jokes to try and make me laugh.

"The teacher was standing in front of me and telling them all I was made of stone while I was moving about.

"You can hear the children enjoying themselves. It's great to reach out to disabled children like that."

Meir Heath artist Angela Pike also lent a hand as a fingerpainting expert alongside caricaturist Chris Ryder, cartoonist Chris Altham and entertainer Ritchie Walton.

Jilly Stubbs, the foundation's regional co-ordinator for North Staffordshire, said: "The aim of the foundation is to inspire children artistically and seek out artistic talent in children. At every event the children always leave happy.

"It's a lovely opportunity to further enhance their school life and gives them an opportunity to meet new people, develop new skills and gain experiences they may want to take further. Everyone is achieving something."