Pope returns from Japan

A former Ashford School girl has returned from a VIP trip to Japan after winning an international competition.

Amy Pope was the UK winner of an annual art competition run by The International Foundation for Arts and Culture (IFAC).

Her prize included the once-in-a-lifetime trip to Tokyo where Amy was treated like royalty, introduced to Japanese celebrities and met the other winners who came from various countries all over the world.

"The trip was an incredible life-changing experience," said Amy, who is now studying Clinical Science at Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, in association with Exeter University. The talented artist left Ashford School in July this year.

Amy's work ‘The Sea' is one of 10 from the UK that was exhibited at the International High School Art Competition and had previously formed part of a major ‘seascape' exhibition of more than 100 pieces by Ashford School students in Seasalter.

The prize included 50,000 Japanese Yen in prize-money, (approximately £400), a return ticket to Japan for Amy and her mother, accommodation and guided tours of Tokyo.

"I enjoyed every minute of the trip," added Amy. "The awards ceremony was amazing - but a little nerve-racking. I had to give a ‘thank-you' speech but the whole experience has given me much more confidence."