Andrew Barlow, a watercolour specialist who teaches evening classes at Guisborough's Prior Pursglove College, has been chosen as a finalist in a competition run by International Artist magazine.

The Australian-based magazine selected three winners and ten finalists from thousands of entries.

Mr Barlow, from Fanacurt Road in Guisborough, said he was stunned to get into the top group with his watercolour of Easedale Tarn, near North Grassmere, but didn't expect to hear any more about it.

Mr Barlow has been drawing and painting since he was five years old, but it was only through his wife Joyce that he started painting seriously when he retired and had time to spare.

"I used to take photographs for my wife who is a keen flower arranger and tutor. She suggested I start to paint and teach as well, and that is how it all began."

Mr Barlow said he finds watercolour painting "challenging, refreshing and pleasant.