A JEWEL in East Lancashire's cultural crown has emerged newly-polished after vandals struck during a £300,000 refit.

Haworth Art Gallery in Accrington has reopened its doors nearly a year after it closed for a massive refurbishment which was delayed when windows were smashed and walls defaced.

And novice painter Bernice Brennand stood next to her watercolour of flowering fuchsias at the inaugural exhibition and said: "It's a fantastic setting to make your debut."

Bernice, of Ward Avenue, Oswaldtwistle, who has only been painting as a hobby for a year, was one of 61 Hyndburn artists whose work was chosen to go on show to mark the reopening.

The venue, in Manchester Road, Accrington, which was built as a private country house in the early 1900s, is one of East Lancashire's best-known galleries, housing a world-famous collection of Tiffany glass.

The refit was carried out thanks to money from the Heritage Lottery Fund, an anonymous benefactor -- who gave £85,000 -- and Hyndburn Borough. Council leader Peter Britcliffe said: "This is a very proud moment. The gallery is a wonderful tourist attraction."

As a celebration of the expensive new look, anyone who lives or works in the borough and paints or sculpts was invited to take part in the first exhibition. The works were judged by a panel of artists.

The priceless Tiffany collection, which was previously housed in just one room, has now spread into four. And a selection of interactive activities has been introduced so that visitors can recreate their own art.

The refit has also added educational facilities for schools, and there is improved access for disabled people and a cafe and gift shop.

The gallery was initially set to reopen last summer, but building costs rocketed by £50,000 and vandals and thieves targeted the building.

Members of the public can view the local artists' exhibits until April 28.

Admission is free.