ARTISTS from around the county have exhibited their work to Rural Arts.

The integrated arts initiative, based in Thirsk, held a training day on Wednesday for artists who want to get together and undertake workshops in rural communities.

The organisation interviewed 50 artists and examined their work in Thirsk Town Hall.

A spokesperson for Rural Arts said: "We have met a lot of new starters and we have to consider certain requirements, such as them working with children and their specific business skills.

"It has been really successful and it's great to have seen the work of so many good artists in our region."

The firm is funded by the Learning and Skills Council, North Yorkshire. Scruton village group has worked with Rural Arts to produce a large banner, which will be on display at the Madeira Threads Show, Harrogate, from today until Sunday.