Artist Chris Topp has helped fix the decorative cross he created to the front of Archbishop Holgate's School in York.

Chris, from Thirsk, made the 4ft high cross for the new reception area of the comprehensive school in Hull Road.

The main section of the cross is made of dark-coloured wrought iron, highlighted by pieces of galvanised steel covered in gold leaf.

Head teacher John Harris said Chris had previously worked on designs for Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth House and the school had chosen his design from several submitted because it was so striking.

The cross, which has cost nearly £4,000, is being paid for by donations and Mr Harris said former pupils of the school were welcome to contribute.

He said the foundation governors had also made a donation and the school was hopeful of a contribution from the Dean and Chapter of York Minster.

Mr Harris said work on the new reception area, which had also created more office space, had taken three months.

"It has made a real impact on parents, pupils and staff," he said.

"We wanted to add the cross as a symbol of 2,000 years of Christianity and of the Christian values of the school."

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