MALHAMDALE artists are preparing for 'Art in the Dale' at the church of St Michael the Archangel, Kirkby Malham.

Starting on Saturday, July 1, paintings, etching, collage, felt-work, photography, stained glass, and wrought-iron work will be on display, and for sale.

Taking part will be 12 professional artists, some of who took part in the recent North Yorkshire Open Studios, the Malham Art Group and pieces made by pupils of Kirkby in Malhamdale primary school.

Exhibiting Artists include: Fiona Armer, David Bridges, David and Heather Cook, Katharine Holmes, Beverley Hicks - together with her father Peter, and daughter Phoebe, Cindy Metcalfe, Jane Midgley, Mark Pilkington, Sarah Roche, and Stephen Waterhouse, plus Malham Blacksmith Annabelle Bradley.

There will also be live music and a poetry theme, with pieces written by local poets.

There will also be a focus on ‘The Celtic Blessing’, which has inspired the paintings of one of the artists, Fiona Armer.

Stephen Waterhouse will be exhibiting a six metre long piece that he is creating for Settle Primary School. Special events during the 9-days are: Jazz with Jon Moreman and Friends on July 1 from 4pm to 6pm; Music for a Summer’s Evening by Octameron, on July 4 at 7pm (£10); poetry and storytelling evening with Katherine Langrish and local poets on July 8 at 7pm (free, but with donations welcomed); Choral Evensong with the Choir of St Alkelda’s conducted by Ellie Everhart on July 9 at 4pm.

Art in the Dale runs from July 1 to July 9, 9am to 6pm every day. Entry is free, although not for all of the special events, and refreshments will be available.

More details on the church website: https://www.kirkbymalhamchurch.org/