Crossmichael Primary has been pipped at the post in the Tour of Britain’s National Land Art Competition.
The children were on tenterhooks as their entry edged ahead in the public vote with days to go.
But a late surge in support for a rival bid from Bolton saw Crossmichael lose out by the narrowest of margins.
Crossmichael Primary School learning assistant Melanie Martin said: “We got over 75,000 votes which was just amazing.
“We had the whole of Scotland and beyond voting for us.
“All the kids are chuffed to bits as are the staff and the community.
“We are completely overwhelmed with all the support.
“It has gone above and beyond all the expectations we had when we first did this.
“It has brought the community together and we are proud to be showcasing Dumfries and Galloway.”
Pupils created a giant artwork of a racing cyclist to mark the tour’s arrival in the village on September 7.
Dining room chairs, a table, tyres and sections of coloured silk were used for the pop-up installation.
The Glenkens school was the only Scottish contender in the eight-strong final of the coveted award.
Keen cyclist Mel – who promotes cycling within the school and the wider community – added: “The Tour of Britain contacted us to say it showed great engagement with the community.
“They are sending us a runners-up framed certificate.”
