A BUILDING once used as a potato office has been transformed into a gallery for art and crafts.

Art-lover Charlotte Schoch gave up a regular job to launch Bedale Fine Arts, in Bedale, which aims to be loyal to North Yorkshire and its artists, while also making room for work from neighbouring counties.

The gallery will display both contemporary and traditional art, but Mrs Schoch believes it is important to have plenty of colour to cheer up visitors.

The former teaching assistant spent a week refurbishing the building with the help of her Swiss husband, Simon. Her mother, Dorothy, helps to run the gallery.

It has paintings by Bedale and Wensleydale artists including Nancy Murgatroyd, John Atkins and Margaret-Anne (Bobby) Heap, all of whom have big followings. It also displays jewellery, silk scarves, handmade cards and glass products made by local people.

Published: 13/05/2006