ARTISTS from across Darlington have put their skills on show to encourage people to sign up to creative courses.

The Bridge, on the corner of Yarm Road and Hundens Lane, is the new home of a number of arts groups in Darlington and is equipped with a ceramics studio and kiln, arts spaces and a printing press.

The centre, which is owned by Darlington Borough Council but run by a collective of arts groups, is now offering a number of courses, which start in the week of January 14.

Among the classes on offer are illustration, ceramics, pastels, life drawing, watercolours, jewellery making, rug making, digital photography and felt making.

The Bridge held an open day on Saturday to allow people to have a look around at the facilities and find out what is on offer.

The courses are run by professional artists, many of whom are local to Darlington, who were on hand to show off their own skills at the easel and printing press.

Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for the arts, said: “The Bridge is a great community venue, led by local people with a real passion for art. Their skills are amazing and a real inspiration to anyone wanting to try their hand at something new or rekindle interest in something they enjoyed in years gone by.”

The course tutors will also host a stall at Darlington Market on Saturday, January 12, to give people an opportunity to sign up for a class.

For more information on the courses available visit darlington.gov.uk/Leisure/arts/thebridge.htm or call 01325-244174.