A COUPLE who have opened a new art gallery in Bacup hope to create an artisan quarter in the town.

Artist Diane Hamnett and her partner John Turpin are behind the recently opened Waterbridge Gallery, in Burnley Road.

John said their aim, together with Christine Lever, an artist and fine art restorer who owns the business next door to the gallery, is to try to create a showcase for artists.

He said: "We want to provide a window for various artists' work and a place where people can see original artwork within the Rossendale Valley.

"Starting in February 2004, we shall be featuring an Artist of the Month who will hold an exhibition of their work within the gallery during that month.

"Naturally, we look forward to featuring the work of local artists and already have a number of artists booked for exhibitions."

Setting up in Bacup, John and Diane have received advice and help from the Business Link supported Top of the Valley team.

John said: "This is a new venture for us.Since leaving the RAF 15 years ago, I have worked in numerous senior management positions but have never run my own business.

"The support and advice from the Top of the Valley Team was very welcome."

The gallery currently features an exhibition of Diane's work.

She said: "My paintings are in collections around the world from Europe to Australia and North America. I have spent many summer holidays in south west France and this is reflected in my work on show in the gallery."

Diane, who also teaches art in Blackburn, exhibited her first piece of work when she was seven years old, but had to wait another 35 years before she had her first solo exhibition.

Recently, one of her paintings, Blue Womb, was featured in the Commonwealth Games Video and was on display as part of a larger exhibition at the Victoria Baths in Manchester during the baths' successful entry in the BBC's programme Restoration.

Waterbridge Gallery is open daily Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 6pm.