A PAINTING of Llanhilleth as it used to look now has pride of place in the village's new primary school.

The picture - which includes the Central Hotel before it burnt down - was painted by Derek Hartshorn, from Rassau in Ebbw Vale.

Mr Hartshorn died last year and his family gave two of his pictures to Llanhilleth councillor Hedley McCarthy.

The first picture, of Ebbw Vale, was then displayed at the civic centre and an unveiling ceremony was held there last year.

Now the second picture - called Old Llanhilleth - has been given to the new St Illtyd's Primary School, which opened in September.

The painting is to be hung in the reception area, where pupils, staff and visitors can admire it.

Councillor McCarthy said: "With the Llanhilleth regeneration being carried out, I thought the painting should be at the school."

Head teacher Nigel Roberts said: "It is a beautiful painting looking back to Victorian times. It was presented at an assembly on Friday and the children all recognised where it was. They think it is lovely."