GAINFORD has celebrated its artists after holding its 37th annual art exhibition.

The event, which is run by volunteers, was started by a group of residents who wanted to show off their paintings.

Every year it is held in Gainford Village Hall with all funds going towards the building as it is transferred to the community from Durham County Council.

This year’s show was held form May 20 to 22 and had the highest number of entries with 30 exhibitors displaying more than 140 pieces of work.

Artwork from pupils of Gainford School, St Osmund’s pre-school and from the Gainford Toddler group was also displayed.

Organiser, Patrick Langdon, said: “It is fascinating to see the children’s work alongside adults’ work. The children are so direct and unselfconscious.”