England men's hockey player puts on art exhibition at Sedbury Hall

John Crewe, 64, sold his first piece of work at 16-years-old but decided to turn down a place at art college to pursue a career in sports.

He then spent 30 years as a PE teacher before deciding, aged 55, to follow his dreams and become a full-time artist.

In the last decade he has built a reputation for his landscape and seascape works. They are inspired by his time spent in the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland.

In June, John will be putting on an exhibition of his work at Sedbury Hall, the former king's stables in North Yorkshire.

Visitors will be able to watch him at work from 10am until 4pm from June 22 to June 28.

The artist balances his time with playing for the England Men's Over 65 team travelling around the world.

He will turn 65 next week, leading to him being selected in the Over 65 team.

The 64-year-old said: "I have always painted and I have been very lucky to have sold a number of works.

"I sold my first piece of art to a family friend when I was just 16, I suppose it could have been just to encourage me.

"It worked and I got a place at art college but I decided to go down the route of sports.

"I was a PE teacher for 30 years but then I decided to give art a go full time.

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"It's been going really well and I'm looking forward to putting on the exhibition at Sedbury Hall.

"It will last from June 22 to June 28 and I will be there working on my easel every day.

"I do all sorts of stuff from big canvases, landscapes, seascapes and portraits. There is stuff for everyone to enjoy."