They say many hands make light work and this could not be truer for a mid-Norfolk high school's world record attempt.

Northgate High School, in Dereham, is appealing to its local community to lend a hand and join them in their quest to make it into the history books.

The aim is to beat the current record of placing 1,401 handprints on a single work of art in an hour.

The Dereham Carnival committee is supporting the attempt.

Maureen Mottley, head of the arts faculty at Northgate, said: 'The artwork will comprise of a huge heart, made up of the handprints from people in the Dereham community and surrounding areas.

'Dereham is in the very heart of Norfolk and the people in the community are at the heart of the carnival, so what better place to attempt a world record and show the community how much we care and what we can achieve if we pull together.'

People are being encouraged to 'have a heart and lend a hand' for the event, which takes place during the Dereham Carnival, in the main arena, on July 22.

The world record attempt will happen between 4.30pm to 5.30pm, but those participating are asked to gather at the arena from 4pm to ensure a prompt start to the handpainting.

Tickets are £1 per handprint, and all proceeds raised will go towards Dementia Friends and the Northgate High School's student council. Tickets can be purchased from the school's reception and at Dereham Sixth Form Centre, on Crown Road.

A Dereham Carnival committee spokesperson said they wished them every success and were already looking forward to seeing the amazing piece of art they create.

- This year's Dereham Carnival parade takes place on July 22 and a one-mile fun run will take place immediately before the parade. A car boot trail is also taking place on June 24. For the most up-to-date information on the carnival visit the website www.derehamcarnival.co.uk.

- Are you excited about this year's Dereham Carnival? Write to donna-louise.bishop@archant.co.uk

- This year's Dereham Carnival parade takes place on July 22 and a one-mile fun run will take place immediately before the parade. A car boot trail is also taking place on June 24. For the most up-to-date information on the carnival visit the website .