THE unusual setting for an exhibition of art proved to be just as beautiful as the work seen on canvas.

Turton Tower provided the backdrop for the first Art in the Garden event this weekend.

Visitors to the historic venue had more than one landscape to admire as enthusiastic amateur and semi-professional artists from Bolton and the surrounding district showed off their work.

As well as displays, artists also put paintbrush to canvas in the gardens and took time out to chat to visitors.

The event was organised by the Harwood Painting Group and Friends of Turton Tower, and was inspired by Nottingham’s Patching’s Art Festival.

It was organised to promote art in the community, draw attention to art groups and provide an opportunity for keen art loving people to further their hobby.

The family day also featured a chocolate tombola, bar and cake and tea marquee.