SCHOOL friends Eleanor Whyte and Agnes Koekkoek found themselves locked in an intense sword battle at a museum’s art festival.

The seven-year-olds, who attend St Edmund’s Catholic Primary School, Abingdon, were taking part in the Ashmolean’s first Arty Party event on Saturday. Visitors to the Beaumont Street museum enjoyed free activities including treasure hunts, art and craft sessions and face painting.

Agnes, who had her face painted and made her own sword, said: “I really enjoyed going to the Ashmolean and seeing Eleanor.”

Eleanor added: “There were so many things to do and it was really fun.”

Agnes’s mum Larysa Redka, of Abingdon, said: “The Ashmolean generally has lots of really good quality activities and it allows quality time with the children. It is never a disappointment.”

Stalls and activities were run by members of the Oxford University Museum’s Volunteer Service.