A Biddulph artist is hoping to give the town's High Street a new look by displaying her paintings in the windows of local businesses.

Ruth Breen was inspired after hearing that other artists around the country had also been putting their paintings on display in shop windows.

She is hoping that her artwork might help to brighten up the High Street during a time when most of its shops have been forced to close due to the lockdown.

Biddulph Nub News first spoke to Ruth in October after her artwork was displayed at the Silk House in Leek, despite only taking up painting in the summer.

Now her latest idea aims to make Biddulph High Street more "bright and cheerful" during a difficult time for local businesses.

She said: "I was listening to the news the other day, and I heard that artists are displaying their paintings in shop windows to help morale so that people have something cheerful to see when out walking.

"I wondered if some of the shops in Biddulph High Street that have had to close would be interested in displaying some of my paintings. I can honestly say they are bright and cheerful

paintings, so seem to fit.

"I have continued to paint, so I do have a number of paintings, the rest are still in Leek but my house has loads."

She continued: "The reason I have suggested this as an idea is because everything seems so difficult at the moment.

"We have the vaccination but infection rates are really high and sadly people are dying. We are allowed to exercise, but to keep this local. Why not make our local area bright and cheerful?

"Our business in the High Street need supporting, even if they cannot open, so this is maybe a way to help people remember them. Hopefully this will make people smile and give a bit of colour into January which can be quite dark at times."

She also encouraged other local artists to get involved, adding: "There are maybe other artists who would like to get involved as well, particularly children who have artwork."

If you would be interested in displaying Ruth's artwork in your shop, email her at [email protected]