THE kids are all right... or at least that's what renowned local artist Chas Burton reckons from his experience working with schools to help children discover their creative potential.

Chas, whose new exhibition is open this weekend at Williamson Park, has already produced murals and fundraising pictures for local schools.

And his latest challenge has been leading a workshop at a Fleetwood school.

Chas says: "It's been very rewarding. I've had feedback saying that children involved in the workshops have been asking after brushes, painting sets and things. It's good for them to develop an interest in an active pursuit when so often the temptation nowadays is to sit and watch television or play computer games.

"For me it's been great too. Working as an artist can be quite isolated and it's nice to have that bit of rapport with people in my work."

Several junior schools in the area have been following Chas' work as part of the curriculum, and it's easy to see the appeal - bright, bold colours and shapes are his calling card.

Much in the same way as a child uses a picture to tell a story, Chas peoples his pictures with interesting little characters which might easily tell stories of their own.

* The latest Chas exhibition is on Saturday and Sunday at the Ashton Memorial, Williamson Park, and will feature new paintings, Christmas cards and exhibits from the children's workshops.

Viewers will get a complimentary drink and mince pie as they take a look at his new picture of 'Church Street', his latest canvas editions and a selection of original paintings.

Open from 11am until 3.30pm on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November at

the Ashton Memorial.

Signed limited edition prints bought on both days between 11am and 3.30pm will be personalised by the artist. Entry is free.