A SPECTACULAR treasure chest, containing 30 works of art, has been publicly launched at Ludlow's Library and Museum Resource Centre.

The Artbox Chest, complete with padlocks and animated metal ravens on the lid, houses items from the unique collection built up over 40 years by Eric Robinson.

Designed and built by Andy Hazell, the Artbox has started a tour of five Shropshire schools that continues until May.

The idea is that pupils and teachers can handle and explore original works of art during their lessons.

Eric Robinson's collection includes paintings, drawings, prints and textiles from the 16th to the 21st centuries.

"Artbox means that young people in Shropshire do not have to depend upon rare visits to a gallery in a big city to enjoy the visual arts," he said.

"I believe strongly that all children should have a chance to develop their creative skills in art and music, which can be the basis of a lifelong involvement giving endless satisfaction."