LOCAL artists are being offered the chance to display their work in one of Durham's grandest settings.

Durham City Council has set aside a room in the town hall for an exhibition of local work. The space, which is being provided free, will be available for the next two weeks.

Mark Metcalf, a community development worker with the council, said: "Durham's Town Hall is busy throughout the year, and there are large numbers of people coming through this room, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.

"An exhibition that puts local talent on show will attract attention and provide much needed public space for amateur artists. We are delighted with the response we have had to date and hope to change the paintings regularly to give everyone a chance to display their favourite paintings and sketches."

Work by Barbara Napper, of Kelloe, James Maughan, of Quarrington Hill, Ronald Foster, of Ushaw Moor, Norah Tempest, also of Ushaw Moor, and Paul Whittle, of Ludworth, is already on display.

Mr Maughan, 67, said: "This is the perfect setting. It's a big chance to let people see what I can do."

Anyone wishing to display their work at the town hall is asked to ring 0191-3018446.