AMATEUR artist Ken Small, 68, is preparing to show six of his paintings at a national Christmas exhibition.

The British Watercolour Society show in the Winter Gardens, Ilkley, is the largest exhibition of original paintings in the country. It holds four exhibitions and Mr Small is now a regular contributor.

The self-taught artist from Rushyford, near Newton Aycliffe, started painting as a hobby, but has devoted more time to it since retiring as a tool-maker. He was recently made a Companion of the International Guild of Artists.

About 7,000 people are expected to attend the exhibition from November 23 and December 1.