BUDDING artists have been exploring the architecture of a historic Darlington church.

North-East artist Paul Judson has been helping a group of artists at St Cuthbert’s Church to consider and reflect on the art and architecture of the church in Darlington town centre.

The workshop began with a tour of the church, before Mr Judson helped the participants to create their own art in response to the building.

The event was part of the Spirit in Stone Lindisfarne Legacy Project, an initiative by Inspired North-East and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Working with 48 historic churches across the dioceses of Durham and Newcastle, the project has provided a range of training and events to help churches engage people in the diverse heritage of historic places of worship in the North-East.

Project co-ordinator Elizabeth Baker said: "This has been a great way for people to look at churches in a different light. Paul has vast experience of working in churches and uses this to really inspire the group - the work produced has been fantastic."

An exhibition of some of the art and photographs produced during the workshops will be on display in Newcastle Cathedral for one week from April 23, before touring some of the churches involved in the project.