ART lovers are being offered the chance to forage for inspiration and create their own masterpiece amid the splendour of a forest.

The Forestry Commission is to hold its first series of Arty Parties in the 8,500-acre woodland of Dalby Forest, near Pickering, North Yorkshire.

Four events are planned this year - the first on Saturday, April 25, when a workshop will be led by artist Vanessa Thompson, from the nearby village of Middleton.

She will be encouraging budding artists to discover hidden talents through silk painting and by using twigs and pine cones to express themselves in collage.

Vanessa is enjoying a growing reputation for her silk paintings, and this event promises to be popular with absolute beginners, as well as those wanting to brush-up on their skills.

Ranger Peter Lockwood said: "We'll take a stroll through the forest to gather materials and then let people's imaginations run riot, with tips and suggestions from Vanessa.

"Dalby is the perfect place to find inspiration with wildlife abundant and spring foliage vibrant."

Vanessa said: "The idea is to enjoy the fabulous woodland environment to the full, while having a go at producing art work, which people can take home."

The workshop runs between 10am and 4pm. It costs £10 a person and is for people aged over 15 only. To book, contact (01751) 472771.

Three more Arty Parties are planned this summer, including a sketching workshop with Graham Rhodes on July 24, and two more with Vanessa, a family event on July 25 and a final adult session on September 28.