GAZETTE & HERALD: Sheldon School has two reasons to celebrate, with the arrival of two special awards.

Sporting excellence has been recognised with the renewal of the school's prestigious Sportsmark Gold award.

And Sheldon has been awarded its first Art Mark, for its achievements in art, dance, drama and music.

Teachers and pupils at the Chippenham comprehensive are celebrating the renewal of the school's Sportsmark Gold award for another three years. It recognises their efforts to promote physical education and sporting excellence in the school and the wider community.

Head of PE Adam Douglas said: "The award recognises the contribution of staff, students and parents, who all help make Sheldon physical education and sport very special.

"It is particularly pleasing that Sport England recognises this and that LEA advisor Martin Cooper continues to support the work we do."

Sheldon was the first Wiltshire school to gain the award in May 2001. It is given for excellence in PE and sport through the curriculum and extra-curricular activities.

The award lasts three years and Sheldon is now the first Wiltshire school to keep its gold status.

The Art Mark was awarded by the Arts Council for achievement in the arts, both within the curriculum and through extra-curricular activities.

"It's fantastic," said spokesman Ian Beveridge. "It shows we have another string to our bow, and another area in which we are doing well."