THE grand opening of a new, purpose-built arts centre for Skipton and the wider Craven area has been declared a great success.

More than 500 artists, creatives, civic leaders, friends and family, and others, attended either the private or public openings of Craven Arts House in Otley Street, Skipton.

Previously a school, the building, also once used by Craven College, and most recently a youth centre, the Craven District Council owned building has been transformed with funding including from the government's Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) project, the Arts Council, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which paid for the installation of solar panels, and also with match-funding from the council.

Now the home of Craven Arts, which is leasing the building from the council, it features creative studio spaces, an education room, for art and craft courses, a meeting room, community hall and 'green screen' room. There is also a suite of soundproof music rooms, aimed at young people and available to hire.

A special evening attended by funders and guests, saw Craven Council former arts officer, Catherine Johnson, who helped make the project a reality, cut a blue ribbon officially opening the centre. David Smurthwaite, the council's strategic manager planning and regeneration, and Ann Rutherford, project manager for Craven Arts, both gave speeches. It included a performance of sung poetry and cello by Sarah Smout.

The public opening and launch of Craven Arts Christmas exhibition was also well attended. Visitors enjoyed beer specially supplied by Northern Monk, while Craven Arts trustees and members showed people around the building. Fashion designer Joan Murray, who lives in Skipton, was there along with three models wearing her designs and bringing a 'dash of high fashion glamour'.

A spokesperson for Craven Arts said: "The new year will see Craven Arts launching creative art and craft classes. They will include 'art for the terrified', 'drawing from observation' and 'paper making' amongst others. These are perfect presents for the festive season.

"Skipton’s well known animator Virpi Kettu is also running 'animation magic', one of her popular courses. Other courses are in the planning and will be launched soon."

At last week's full meeting of Craven District Council, deputy chair, Councillor Chris Rose, who attended the opening, praised those behind the arts centre and said it was a lovely example of how the council could work with others on a major project.

"The work that has gone on is extraordinary, it is a wonderful legacy for Craven District Council."

Craven Arts says is it dedicated to supporting young creatives and will be offering residencies and young curator opportunities. It will be applying for funding to help make ambitious plans a reality and it is looking for two young people to join its board. Anyone interested should email info@cravenarts.co.uk

To find out more about courses at Craven Arts House, visit: https://www.cravenarts.co.uk/