Customers at a new gallery were treated to a party atmosphere with glasses of prosecco and chocolates handed out to celebrate the opening.

The Artful Pigeon on High Street West, Glossop, is a joint enterprise between local artists Caroline Hewitt, Jackie Darlington and Kathryn Fruish.

Kathryn used to own the Wishing Tree gallery in the town, but closed it.

She said: “My mum used to help me out, but the pressure of running the business on my own became too much. With the Artful Pigeon the responsibility is shared three ways.”

She added: “Caroline and Jackie used to exhibit at the Wishing Tree, so it seemed a natural progression to all work together. They were both best sellers. We’re hoping our loyal customers will find us again at the Artful Pigeon.”

Caroline said: “We have some established artists, but we’ve invited new ones from Whaley Bridge and from as far away as Leeds. 

“We’re stocking paintings, fine arts, jewellery and prints. We also have work from a blacksmith and a wood turner. We’re hoping to establish an online presence for those who can’t get into Glossop.

“Glossop is full of pigeons and as I quite like them, we settled on the Artful Pigeon.”

The trio hope to be able to free up some space to hold small workshops at the gallery in the future.

Local school children have been invited to submit their pigeon art. 

The winning entries will be displayed in the gallery window and prizes will be given for the best ones. 

You can find the Artful Pigeon at 81 High Street West in Glossop.

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