THREE creative craftswomen are attempting to tap into the growing Valentine's Day market.

Pamela Nord, Marie-Bernadette Young and Stacey Murryfield have teamed up to open the Hart Gallery, in Durham City.

The trio are launching the studio-style gallery in one of the Fowlers Yard creative workspace units tomorrow.

They hope some of their distinctive products will help their enterprise, Hart Design, to win over some hearts on February 14. A "Valentine's Event" is being staged at the gallery to mark the launch.

Visitors will be able to look at Pamela's hand-made embellished textiles, Marie-Bernadette's salmon leather gifts and accessories, and Stacy's unique interior designs.

Pamela specialises in creating wall hangings and pictures, using a mixture of materials and fabrics.

Marie-Bernadette creates designer gifts and accessories from environmentally-friendly "aqua" leathers, tanned from salmon skin.

Stacey creates bespoke interiors for clients with a list of commercial and domestic credits to her name.

Their work sells to an international market, and all three are managing to establish recognition in their distinct fields.

Marie-Bernadette said: "With Valentine's Day approaching, we decided it was an ideal opportunity to launch the gallery, and offer a unique experience for the public.

"They can visit the workshop gallery, see us at work with our designs, and also have the opportunity to purchase some of the creations."

The Hart Gallery, in Cottage 2 at Fowlers Yard, in Back Silver Street, to the rear of the Town Hall, is open from 10am to 5pm tomorrow.

Published: 04/02/2005