THE value of artists to the economy has been illustrated by the opening of studio workshops at Saltburn.

Mr David Willshaw, principal of Cleveland college of art and design, performed the opening at the culmination of a major project by Saltburn improvement company in association with Saltburn artists' projects.

The regional development agency, One NorthEast, backed the scheme as a key element in its Rural Challenge, giving £210,000. It also attracted £130,000 of arts lottery and European regional development funding.

The aim is to link the development of visual arts with the regeneration of Saltburn. In recent years, the presence of artists in the town has become an important aspect of its economy.

The building was previously used as a bakery and kitchen design workshop. It has 12 workspace units for self-employed artists to develop their own business plus a gallery where the first exhibition is now on show.

Mr Jonathan Blackie, director of strategy and external affairs at One NorthEast, said: "This project will provide money to sustain the community partnership of Saltburn improvement company and allow it to develop further regeneration projects for the town."

It is expected that the studio and range of artworks it produces will attract more visitors to Saltburn.

Artists are also likely to be involved in the promotion and marketing of local events, further helping the local economy which is dependent on tourism.

Mr Phil Hewitt, of the improvement company, said: "The project is the culmination of many years of hard work. It embodies the theme of creative energy which is central to the Saltburn Rural Challenge programme.