A NEW arts boss is delving into Burnley's hotbed of talent to bring a splash of colour and creativity to the town.

Helen Knowles was appointed arts development officer by Burnley Council to implement its arts strategy.

And she is rounding up local artists to help highlight Burnley's underplayed value as a haven for creative thinkers.

The town has a thriving community, ranging from students at Burnley College to professionals producing work from drama to sculpture.

Helen started in January and has been developing the strategy for its April launch.

A major part is to involve experienced artists in creating a piece for the new integrated Health and Leisure Centre on the former St Peter's car park site, as well as future projects.

Helen said: "I am keen to get as much information about Burnley artists as possible so I can gain a clear picture of the talent that exists locally.

"This will help us feed artists into projects and enable us to promote artists' work and skills."

The public art commission for the centre is one of the projects trying to bring culture to the borough.

Helen's role was backed by Mid Pennine Arts, which also feels Burnley enjoys an abundance of homegrown talent.

The agency showcases artists at Burnley's gallery in Yorke Street and helps them find funding.

Marketing officer, Gayle Knight, said: "It really is a thriving arts area. The standard is incredibly high and there's so much going on. It compares favourably with other East Lancashire areas and outside the region.

"It's perhaps not widely known because we don't always blow our trumpet. We are so incredibly supportive of what Helen's brief is because it will enhance our work as well and we will hopefully be able to form a strong relationship with her."

Helen's post will focus on using art as a tool to "creatively enhance" the quality of projects alongside regeneration initiatives.

It is jointly funded by Burnley Council, the Arts Council North West and Lancashire County Council.

Coun Colette Bailey, executive member for leisure, added: "There are many exciting opportunities for integrating the arts into Burnley's future and by having Helen in post, we can ensure we build on those opportunities and secure further funding for the town."

Experienced artists have been invited to send in their contact details and portfolio to Helen at Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley BB11 1JA.