A LOCAL artist launched her latest children's book at the weekend.

Dawn Piggot, from Coxlodge, Newcastle, has been drawing in pastels for several years, often depicting children in famous North-East settings.

Earlier this year, she was approached by a London publishing company, which asked her to write and illustrate a children's book. Ms Piggot launched the result - Gregory and The Magic Line - at the Consett Glass and Art Gallery on Saturday, where she signed copies for visitors.

Ron O'Keefe, joint proprietor of the gallery, said: "Dawn's paintings are exceptional in the way she captures children in everyday poses which are generally ignored.

"Her work is very much admired and in great demand.

"No doubt this will also apply to her book, since we already have an order for more than 40 copies."

Many of Ms Piggot's artworks have been exhibited and sold at the gallery, where organisers decided to establish a permanent display of her work for visitors.