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

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

The society and the exhibition were 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 heavily involved in the Weardale Museum and volunteered at Stanhope Barrington School's breakfast club.

In honour of the 89-year-old, fellow committee members decided to rename the event 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 was particularly poignant, but saw more than 50 artists exhibiting in the show, which ran from August 19 to 27 at St Thomas' Church Hall in Stanhope. More than 100 people attended the special opening.

Paintings, charcoal drawings, embroidery and photography were on display and visitors were invited to vote for their favourite work.