SEVENTEEN years ago Irene Best retired and dedicated her time to her painting.

The many hours spent at her easel at her home in Darlington, not only bring her great pleasure but also allow her to exhibit her work nationally.

Mrs Best, 67, has been given the opportunity to display four of her watercolours at the Summer Exhibition in Ilkley, run by the British Watercolour Society, which runs from today until June 20.

The works she has chosen for display, alongside work by 174 other artists from across the country, are entitled Going Home, Vines, After The Storm and Water Lilies.

Mrs Best, of Greystones Drive, has exhibited work at Westminster Gallery, in London, and the People's Gallery, in Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

Thomas Coxon, of West Auckland Road, Darlington, will display six pieces of art work at Ilkley.

Published: 12/06/2004