A WEALTH of artistic talent is on show at this year’s Bolton Open Art Exhibition.

The exhibition at Bolton Museum and Library features 93 pieces of artwork in a range of different styles and media.

The exhibition comes after a competition open to all artists over the age of 16 who work, live or study in Bolton, was whittled down by independent judges.

Judges received 270 pieces of artwork, which were then narrowed down to 93 which are exhibited. Three winners were also selected and presented with their prizes by the Mayor of Bolton Cllr Colin Shaw.

George Pott’s oil canvas painting entitled ‘All Yesterdays’ came out on top, while Margaret Jackson’s wax emulsion named ‘The Tree House, Halliwell’ came second, and in third place was Judith Dent’s acrylic canvas ‘The Umbrella Ride’.

Matthew Watson, collections access manager at Bolton Museum, said the exhibition shows the wealth of creativity within the town.

He said: “It is a great showcase for artists in Bolton, and it gives an opportunity for work by professional artists as well as amateurs to stand side by side.

“It is amazing really, we have got 270 works from 170 artists, and this year the quality has been really high.”

Mr Pott, aged 79, of Beechfield Road, Smithills, came third in the last exhibition two years ago, and said he was delighted to be crowned victor this time round.

His painting depicts the interior of Jesse May’s Cafe in Ramsbottom, and one of its most loyal customers.

Mr Potts, who used to work in advertising, said it is people that inspire him to paint.

He said: “It was a shock to win, really. I like painting people, and I go for people who are memorable.

“He had this native American top on, and I had a word with him and asked if I could take a photo of him.”

Second placed Mrs Jackson, aged 61, of Harpers Lane, Smithills, said: “I was very pleased, because I didn’t get in last time. I was going home on the bus and there it was, a tree house.”

Third placed Ms Dent, aged 64, from Heaton, added: “I was very pleased, I didn’t expect it. I have never won anything in my life.”

The judges were Yvonne Hardman from Touchstones in Rochdale, Vanessa McDermott from Bolton at Home and Helen Stalker from the Whitworth Art Gallery.

The exhibition runs until February 2.