A 'PROUD northerner', professional dancer and former director at the Northern Ballet has been appointed executive lead at Craven Arts in Skipton.

Selina McGonagle will take over the role from Ann Rutherford, who is due to retire from the arts organisation at the end of July.

Ms McGonagle, who lives in South Craven, and has 25 years experience as a senior leader in the arts sector, says she is looking forward to improving access to the arts for young people.

In addition to the Northern Ballet, she was manager at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and a teacher and performer nationally and internationally.

For the last eight years she has been director of the Geraldine Connor Foundation, a performing arts charity focused on developing opportunities and the careers of young creatives in Leeds.

“I am delighted to have this exciting opportunity to lead and be part of the team that further develops Craven Arts and the Arts House," she said.

"Craven Arts is recognised for its visual arts courses, exhibitions, and studios. As a senior leader who has worked in the performing arts sector, I am pleased to see the development of activity across a broader range of artforms and I relish the opportunity to work to improve access to the arts for young people in the district."

She added: "Throughout my career I have worked across the northern region, I am a proud northerner who wants the best for our region and communities.”

David Hawkins, chair of the Craven Arts Board of Trustees, said the organisation was very fortunate in recruiting its new executive lead.

"Selina has 25 years’ senior leadership experience in the arts. She will be a significant addition to the arts and culture scene in North Yorkshire," he said.

"The training, dedication and diligence required of a professional dancer, coupled with the vision, imagination, and flair of a director, will stand Selina in good stead to lead Craven Arts into a secure and creative future."

Craven Arts, a charitable organisation led by a board of trustees and based in Otley Street, has an ambitious future which includes further development of the new Arts House, engaging the next generation of young creatives, and supporting Craven Arts members practising in the district.

A three month 'summer breeze' festival is currently underway at Craven Arts, including workshops, live music, free creative activities for children, exhibitions, and a weekend long makers fair.