AN artist is being sought to fill a space on the wall of a Georgian building in Bedale.

Bedale Hall, a former country house now used as offices and a community centre, has two large picture spaces on either side of the fireplace in the ground floor ballroom.

One space is occupied by a £2,000 6ft by 5ft painting of a Georgian street scene by local artist Ray Todd. It was partly funded through a bequest from the late Anne and Fred Olney, of nearby Aiskew.

The hall management committee has now received an anonymous offer of £1,000 towards the cost of commissioning a painting of similar size to fill the other space.

Chairman John Noone said: ''Getting another painting would create a nice balance for visitors to the ballroom.

"'We are asking the community to come up with ideas for a subject, which ideally should be Bedale-orientated, and would like to hear from any local art group if there is anyone who feels they could attempt such a big painting.

"Donations towards the cost would be appreciated but the management committee may also be able to contribute.''

Hall administrator Janice Stoker can be contacted on 01677-423797.