THE ORGANISERS of an exhibition with a twist are calling for budding artist to get involved.

The show, which will be available at the Platform Gallery at Bolton Station, is a showcase of work thought to be the first of its kind in the world.

It differs from other exhibitions as all the work will be created by people who work on the railway line.

“We think this is a world first”, said Bolton Station Community Development Partnership chair Julie Levy.

“There has been no shortage of railway art, but usually by artists outside the railway industry. We see this as an opportunity for budding rail worker artists to gain some recognition, as well as celebrate the work of earlier railway artists – if we can find them.”

During the period of the exhibition, from September 7 to 21, the station partnership will be running a series of talks, poetry readings and musical events celebrating railway culture.

Professor Paul Salveson, a former Bolton signalman and railway guard, will give a talk on two talented but neglected railway worker-poets - signalman Walter Sinkinson and guard Joe Smythe.

The organisers say the exhibition parallels the famous ‘Pitmen Painters’ of the Ashington coalfield in Northumberland.

However, whilst little remains of the British mining industry, they say the railways are experiencing an era of growth and have called on anyone working in the industry to come forward and showcase their talent.

“It will be wonderful to highlight the artistic talent that exists today in Britain’s railways,” said Ms Levy.

“We want to hear from artists – in any media – who are interested in exhibiting. The subject matter can be anything – it doesn’t have to be railway scenes, though they are welcome. Active or retired railway workers are all welcome to submit their ideas.”

The community partnership has worked to bring Bolton's Platform Gallery into use and now wants to take advantage of the space.

Potential exhibitors should contact Prod Salveson on 07795 008691 or email paul.salveson@myphone.coop.