AN ARTIST from East Lancashire has become one of only 20 people across Britain to be the latest to join the prestigious Chartered Society of Designer Craftsmanship.

Work by Shahida Haider-Choudhry, 26, of Hibson Road, Nelson, was spotted by the society, which regularly visits art and design colleges across the country looking for up-and-coming artists.

She was invited, along with other new members, to exhibit her work at the Mall Gallery, London, at the end of last month. "It means I can use the fact that I'm a member with my work," said Shahida, who is currently on a teacher-training placement at Heywood Community School, Bury, as part of her studies towards becoming a teacher.

"It is quite a prestigious move. I was among only 20 people from across Britain to be asked to join the society."

The former Edge End High School and Nelson and Colne College student concentrates on sculptural ceramics work based on Islamic culture.

Her work will be seen closer to home next month during a Mid-Pennine Arts exhibition in Brierfield Town Hall, on March 26 and 27.

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