THE sixth anniversary of a hospital chapel has been celebrated with the unveiling of a series of spectacular murals on its ceiling.

Local artist Paul Humberstone created the artwork in Harrogate District Hospital at the invitation of chaplaincy team leader the Reverend David Hoskins.

Mr Hoskins said the idea had hit him "like a lightning bolt from heaven" after he had been looking at the panels on the ceiling for years, waiting for inspiration to strike.

"There are four panels, each measuring 8ft by 4ft - a challenge on a scale that even Michaelangelo would have relished," he said.

"The concept for the content of the murals was that they should not be predominantly religious, but should reflect the work of the trust and represent the community it serves, as well as the holistic nature of NHS care in which body, mind and spirit issues are addressed."

Initial meetings with the artist included him visiting the hospital to take photographs and talk to staff, and there were many rough drafts along the way until the final drawings were agreed.

The final phase of the work saw grids being pencilled on the walls, the art work being outlined and then painted. The process was watched by hospital staff who came to see the murals grow, day by day.

Mr Hoskins said: "We are delighted with these murals. They create lots of opportunity to ponder and, like all good art, we hope it will help expand people's minds when they think about the content.

"Everyone is welcome to stop by and have a look; the chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week."