A TRAIL which connects the the region with two Yorkshire counties will celebrate 50 years since it launched with a different kind of art exhibition.

The 109-mile long Cleveland Way completed in May 1969, begins in Helmsley near Thirsk in North Yorkshire, before it fringes through East Cleveland, and ends in Filey in East Yorkshire.

However, in a unique effort to mark the occasion, the Cleveland Way Partnership, who manage the trail in a joint effort between North York Moors National Park Authority and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, will hold the ‘Cleveland Way in Miniature’ exhibition.

The exhibition will take place from May 11 to June 9 and feature postcard-sized art inspired by the trail.

Works will go on show at the National Park’s official gallery 'Inspired By' in Danby in North Yorkshire.

Sally Ann Smith curator of the gallery said: “Since the Cleveland Way was first established, the 109-mile route between Helmsley and Filey has provided a fantastic way for artists to access such an inspiring landscape.

“The trail has also found its way into the affections of so many other people which is why it makes sense to stage an exhibition where visitors can easily collect a piece of art that marks the anniversary.”

But in a call to action for artists, experienced or amateur, the Cleveland Way Partnership has called upon creatives to submit their trail-inspired artwork ahead of the month-long exhibition.

Artists, of all abilities are being encouraged to submit up to six original pieces of postcard art by May 1.

The partnership said artists can produce their creations using any medium, which includes, drawings, photographs and paintings.

Ms Smith added: “We know how popular previous postcard exhibitions have been with artwork flying off the walls.

"Visitors love the fact they can buy and take home something that is original and collectible.”

In a twist visitors will only find out the artists name, when they purchase individual works.