ASPIRING artist Craig Pearson is preparing for his work to go on display for the first time.

The 20-year-old, who works at the University of Durham as a trainee recruitment assistant, is putting the finishing touches to three abstract paintings, which will eventually be put up in the university's new training room.

It is a busy time for the artist, who lives in Ferryhill, because he is also in the final stages of completing a Modern Apprenticeship (MA) in business administration.

He started working at the university in October 2001 and immediately began working towards an MA, which is provided by the university and funded by the Learning and Skills Council County Durham.

As a trainee recruitment assistant working in the personnel department, his role includes dealing with the thousands of applications that come into the university.

All of his spare time is taken up with art, which ranges from painting to sculpture.

He said: "After I left school, I did a GNVQ in Art and Design at college but rather than going to university, I wanted to start working and earning money. I enjoy working at the university and they have supported me by putting me through my Modern Apprenticeship and encouraging me to continue with my art."

Mr Pearson's paintings will go on display in the university's new training room in July, and later in the summer he intends setting up a website so he can sell his other work.

Modern Apprenticeships are a work-based option for 16 to 24-year-olds and are available in more than 80 careers. For details call 0808 001 3219.