Town is captured on canvas in unique painting competition

One of the artists at work at the Painting Padiham competition.

The first ever Painting Padiham event saw professional artists working side by side with budding painters capturing scenes using a wide range of styles and media.

Artists received their painting supplies from the Storm Art Gallery in Burnley Road before they occupied a series of spots dotted within a one mile radius around the town hall.

And these images taken by town councillor Howard Hudson show a selection of the artists at work.

This artist looks deep in thought as he completes his canvas for the Painting Padiham contest.

Catherine Price, Burnley and Padiham town centre manager, said: “If you want to develop your painting skills there is no better place than to actually get out on the streets with experienced artists.

“This was a great chance for less experienced people to paint side by side with professionals and there are not many places in the country where you can do that."

Painting Padiham entries will go on display at the Picture House Gallery as part of a four-week exhibition launching tomorrow and visitors will be able to vote and decide the winners of the People's Choice Award.

The first prize will scoop £1,000, donated by A1 Motor Stores of Burnley Road, Padiham.