The world map painting covers four tennis courts Enlarge Image

The world map painting, which has taken two years to complete, is the work of more than 500 pupils.

It covers four tennis courts and will be used to track the race as competitors make the 35,000-mile voyage which starts in Liverpool on Sunday.

English hopes in the race rest on the Liverpool 08 Clipper.

'Absolutely stunning'

It is sponsored by the city council and has three people from Liverpool among the crew.

Pupils from Holly Lodge Girls College and West Derby Boys Comprehensive have been involved in producing the 'Holly Lodge World Map' painting.

Simon McKeown, 25, has been artist in residence at Holly Lodge Girls College since 2003 after being commissioned for the project.

Jackie Ley, arts director at Holly Lodge, said: "The map is absolutely stunning. Simon and the children have done a tremendous job.

"They've been very patient as the weather has not always helped, but the reward is a fantastic work of art which should make teaching and learning a real joy."

The Liverpool Culture Company has invited every school in Liverpool to monitor the race using a special internet classroom.