A County Durham care home has discovered an impressive artist in their midst after a resident revealed his work to them.

HC-One’s Stoneleigh care home in Annfield Plain near Stanley was left surprised after welcoming new resident, Alan Cranney, 85, who has wowed them with his knack for art.

A former oil rig engineer, he joined the home in March, and has brought with him the tools to create some inspiring art.

The Northern Echo: HC-One’s Stoneleigh care home in Annfield Plain near Stanley has welcomed a new resident, 85,

He took a year-long break from the industry and decided to pursue his interest in painting and drawing, having always enjoyed sketching in his occasional free time.

Following his request to display some of his works in the home, the care home staff found that his interest in painting was more than just a fling.

The Northern Echo: HC-One’s Stoneleigh care home in Annfield Plain near Stanley has welcomed a new resident, 85,

He said: “Creating art is a wonderful process and one I love doing. I always start by doing a pen sketch first, and if it is good enough, I will paint it.

"I love painting, whether landscapes or portraits or still life.

"It is a joyous activity and especially pleasing when other people like what I’ve produced.”

The works, which range from portraiture to landscapes, have since brightened and upscaled the ambience inside the home.

Mr Cranney worked on the North Sea oil rigs to support his family, wife Linda, son Gary and daughter Deborah.

His artworks included canvases utilising watercolour, pastel, pencils and oil paints.

The Northern Echo: HC-One’s Stoneleigh care home in Annfield Plain near Stanley has welcomed a new resident, 85,

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The Northern Echo: HC-One’s Stoneleigh care home in Annfield Plain near Stanley has welcomed a new resident, 85,

He has exhibited his artwork several times and has enjoyed membership at the Castleside Art Club and the Rowlands Gill Art Club at various times in his life.

Susan Dodds, Home Manager at Stoneleigh care home, said: “His paintings on display here have been a real talking point, and we will be supporting him as much as possible to continue his passion as a resident at Stoneleigh care home.”

Alan now has four children and eight grandchildren, and plans to continue to paint whenever he can.