RUFFLED feathers have been smoothed in a village about to stage an exhibition by artists from around the world.

Former Turner Prize judge Greville Worthington is promoting Some Versions of Light at the former telephone repeater station in Brompton-on-Swale, near Richmond, next Tuesday.

Work by celebrated American James Turrell and former Turner nominees Catherine Yass and Sam Taylor Wood is included in the exhibition, which is sponsored by the Tees Valley office of stockbroker and financial advisors Wise Speke.

All the artists are using light as their medium, prompting neighbours to complain that the effect has driven local birdlife away and caused dogs to bark after dark.

Martin Richman's 5m high Stairway sculpture, erected on the roof, has drawn particular criticism, although an 8m neon exhibit will also be attached to an outside wall before a private viewing of the exhibition for invited guests on Saturday. Mr Worthington has written to all the neighbouring addresses, assuring them any disturbance would be kept to a minimum.

The Stairway sculpture has also been switched off at night.

Resident Alan Bennett said: "We have nothing against the use of the station as an arts venue and it certainly looks much better since it has been restored.

"I accept the sculpture will probably have to be switched on again for the exhibition but we don't see why it had to stay on all night, disturbing people's sleep.

"We certainly welcome the compromise but will be keeping a close eye on what happens during the exhibition." Mr Worthington said: "The bulbs were switched on overnight to check the light levels, but could be timed to turn off late at night if they really cause offence."

Some Versions of Light runs for a week at the old repeater station in Gatherley Road from Tuesday. Admission is free.