A DALE art show has been renamed in memory of a community stalwart who passed away earlier this year.

The Weardale Society has been organising an annual art exhibition for several years to showcase the talents of artists from across the area.

The society and the art exhibition was founded by Stanhope resident, June Crosby.

The great-grandmother was a keen historian and chairwoman of the society until her death in March.

She was also heavily involved in the Weardale Museum and volunteered at Stanhope Barrington School's breakfast club.

And in honour of the 89-year-old, her fellow committee members decided to rename the event after her, calling it The June Crosby Art Exhibition.

Member Kate Gill said Mrs Crosby was "a renowned local historian who loved Weardale and who worked tirelessly to ensure that its history and heritage were known about, promoted but also protected.

"She was chairwoman of the society until her death earlier this year, arranging speakers for meetings, the art exhibition, young musician of the year and outings.

"She was also well known for her home baked tea loaves which were always in great demand at events."

Mrs Gill's husband, Ian, who is acting chairman and treasurer of the committee, said this year's exhibition had been particularly poignant following Mrs Crosby's passing but had seen more than 50 artists show their work during the event, which this year ran from August 19 to 27.

The exhibition was held at St Thomas' Church Hall, in Stanhope and this year, had more than 100 people attend a special opening.

A wide range of genres including paints, charcoal, embroidery and photography were on display while visitors were also asked to vote for their favourite this year.