A classroom dedicated entirely to Lego Star Wars was just one of the delights on show during a fundraising Lego extravaganza at a Harpenden school on Saturday.

Building on from last year's successful launch The Lea Primary School and Nursery opened its doors to host its second exhibition, which attracted more than 1,600 visitors - double the number of visitors last year.

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Visitors got the chance to view a massive collection of models on display as well as play Lego PlayStation, visit the Lego creative room where they could make their own models, take part in a minifigure hunt, get their faces painted and watch Lego movies.

Sue Stevens, chairman of The Lea PTA, said: "The atmosphere on the day was incredible and we received fantastic feedback from visitors. There was so much on offer for both young and old Lego fans."

The entire hall was filled with the private Lego collection of parent Russell Chapman, who has two children at the Moorland Road school.

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Russell Chapman

The exhibition did not just contain box set models, but also Mr Chapman’s own creations, including a scale model of The Lea Primary School and a model of sponsors Putterills Harpenden branch. 

A lifelong Lego fan Russell used over 200,000 bricks from his collection in Saturday's display.

The 'build your own' competition was hugely popular with over 20 different schools taking part , including The Lea, Manland, The Grove, Sir John Lawes, St Georges, Roundwood Park, High Beeches, Wood End, Aldwickbury and St Hildas.  Visitors to the exhibition voted for their favourite model and the winner in each age category received Lego prizes.

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One competition entry

The event raised more £6,500 for the school, which is twice what was raised last year. 

Sharon Swinson,Head teacher, added: "Lego is popular but also provides a range of educational benefits from developing children's creativity and curiosity, to fine motor skills, to teamwork.  The funds raised from this incredible event will go towards revamping the school's library area."

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Sue Stevens, chairman of The Lea PTA, said: "The atmosphere on the day was incredible and we received fantastic feedback from visitors - there was so much on offer for both young and old Lego fans."

The exhibition has just been announced as a regional winner in the PTA-UK Gold Star Awards with a prize of £500 for the school.  The finals will be announced at a National Awards Ceremony in June.