The puppeteer who operates the head of Joey in the stage production of War Horse led a drama workshop for students at Ilkley Grammar School.

Richard Whitehead explored exercises and techniques used in rehearsals for the show when he got together with 35 GCSE pupils.

After a warm up, which included exploring peripheral vision and moving as an ensemble across the space in increasing group numbers, the students analysed horses’ movements before worked on animating objects to create the illusion of a walking horse.

Lara Ramrattan, head of drama at the school, said: “The students are now looking forward to seeing the puppeteers in action at the Alhambra theatre tomorrow.”