ART inspired by the Ribble Valley, Pendle Hill and the heritage of East Lancashire will go on show to the public next month at Clitheroe Castle.

It will be the fifth annual exhibition of ‘Inspired: The Ribble Valley Open’ and take place in the historic Steward's Gallery from Sat 3 August until Sun 29 September.

It is open daily from 11am – 4pm. All works are for sale.

The exhibition features artists living or working in Ribble Valley, Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Pendle, Burnley and Craven.

This year the main theme is works of art which explore the 800-year-old fortification itself which dominates the town - as illustrated in the painting pictured by Clitheroe artist Gwen Shackleton.

County Council culture boss Marcus Johnstone, who represents Burnley and Padiham West, said: "Now in its fifth year, the Ribble Valley Open Exhibition is a great showcase for some really high-quality work by local artists.

"As always, there's a wide variety of styles on display, so there's bound to be plenty for visitors of all ages to enjoy."

Castle manager Rachel Jackson said: “There is bound to be something which will appeal to most visitors.

“Please take time to view the art in this free exhibition space. All pieces of art are for sale.

“One artist will be awarded the ‘Selectors' Choice’ and have the chance to exhibit a solo show here in 2014.

“Visitors are invited take part in the ‘People's Choice’ competition by naming their favourite piece.

“The artist receiving the highest number of votes and one of the voters (chosen at random) will each receive a Lancashire Museums Family and Friends Xplorer Ticket.

As well as the Ribble Valley Open, the Steward's Gallery hosts exhibitions throughout the year.

Last year almost 30 local artists were chosen to show their work on the theme of ‘taste’.

Ribble Valley arts officer Katherine Rodgers, said: “The exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for local artists, amateur or professional, to exhibit their work at a prestigious venue. “ The museum underwent a £3.5-million refurbishment, starting in 2007 and opened to the public in May 2009.