A GROUP of Northern artists staged an inspiring exhibition at Tennants' Auction Centre in Leyburn to raise funds for Dales-Care.

At the preview, Rodney Tennant helped to increase the amount considerably when he took charge of the auction of promises. It was held to raise money for the charity, which develops projects designed to improve quality of life for older people.

Two of the most stunning exhibits were crafted in metal and both were sold. One was Peter Sales' magnificent steel peacock, about 6ft high and almost as wide. Richard Stainthorp used wire to create a sensuous sculpture of a nude.

These were set against a fascinating array of art pieces, from studio glass by Jane Charles, stone sculptures by Dominic Ropner and stately ceramics by George Ormerod to intriguing etchings by Piers Browne, Roseanna Bellwood, John Degnan, Sarah Jane Appleby and Chris Mouncey.

Among the most eye-catching were Debbie Loane's mixed media paintings. Though abstract, these powerfully convey a sense of place. In the same room, in strong contrast, were Alan Stone's courageously minimalistic portrayals of birds, trees and people.

To simply list those who took part is a shame as each brought something special to this exhibition. Others who exhibited were Paul Rogers, Val Mouncey, Glynis Carter and Alan Dyson, alongside some great soulful portrayals of heads of cows by Sue Moffit.

Pip Land