WORK by students on an art therapy course has gone on display at Darlington Arts Centre.

The Openart Studio was set up with funding from Darlington Borough Council and County Durham and Darlington Primary Care Trust to help improve mental wellbeing.

It aims to use art to enhance people's moods, reduce stress, help relaxation and social contact and develop skills and confidence.

Thirty pieces of work by the students, who are aged between 18 and 80, have gone on display in the Lounge Gallery in an exhibition called Let Your Light Shine Through.

Openart Studio project manager Bonnie Davies said: "I'm really pleased with how the exhibition looks. Everybody's been very positive."

The Openart Studio has classes on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to 3.30pm for adults, and classes for children, young people and families from 4pm to 6pm.

The classes are free for the first eight weeks and then a donation of £2.50 is suggested. New evening courses start on Wednesday from December 7, from 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

The first session is free and a £5 donation is suggested thereafter, or £2.50 for carers. The price includes tuition and materials.

For more information about the course, contact Ms Davies on 01325-348848, 07748967701 or email bonnie.davies@darlington.gov.uk The Let your Light Shine Through exhibition runs until January 7. Entrance is free.