RENOWNED playwright Tom Stoppard has been celebrated by staff and pupils at his old school.

Tom's brother, Peter Stoppard, visited Pocklington School to unveil a portrait of his younger brother.

Peter had commissioned the portrait by Royal Academy artist Ken Howard, and donated it to the performing arts centre, named after and opened by the playwright two years ago.

The traditional oil painting, picturing Tom in his study next to the River Thames, is a large portrait which will hang with pride in the foyer of the performing arts centre.

School Development officer David Smith said: "It is a very atmospheric and engaging picture.

"We were very pleased with the donation, it is another evidence of the strong ties between the centre and Tom, and we are very proud of the gift."

Updated: 10:24 Saturday, March 08, 2003