A TOUCH of the Far East has come to Northallerton, with the town's civic centre transformed by an exhibition of Japanese culture.

Artwork and kimonos depicting both ancient and modern elements of Japan's culture are on display at the centre.

Richmond-based company Vintage Kimono chose this site in view of the council's commitment to support art in the area.

For the next three months, visitors will be able to see five intricate kimonos as well as silk paintings by Vintage Kimono's two owners, Katie Chaplin and Jill Clay.

As a grand finale to the exhibition, the council is making April 14 a Japanese Day, when visitors can take part in tea ceremonies, experiment with silk painting and origami in special workshops, and even try on a kimono.

"It is wonderful to have such beautiful works of art gracing the civic centre reception area," said arts development officer Kate Staines.

"We hope it will brighten up a necessary visit to the civic centre. But we also hope that people who do not have any business to conduct here will drop in just to see the exhibition."

Ms Chaplin and Ms Clay founded Vintage Kimono as a result of their mutual love of Japan and its ancient culture.

Ms Clay began teaching silk painting in Middlesbrough and now sells her art across the world. Ms Chaplin first painted on silk in 2003 - and now specialises in painting geisha.

All the artwork on display is for sale. The exhibition is open Monday to Thursday from 8.45am to 5.15pm and Friday from 8.45am to 4.45pm.