LEDBURY artists Anne and Ian Cook will put themselves on the tour map for h.Art this year, for the first time, four years after they built a studio at their own home.

The celebration of local artists, studios and galleries in Herefordshire will attract the art-loving crowds from September 10 to September 18, and Anne and Ian are looking forward to taking part.

They said: "Four years ago we built a studio on to own home: St. Julian, Woodleigh Road, Ledbury, ensuring that it had north light and was self-contained with separate access and toilet.

"It has slowly developed and now we run four U3A art groups, one of which is taught."

They added: "We have both been painting, mainly in watercolour, for around sixteen years and have had several exhibitions of our work."

Ian paints steam trains and animals whilst Anne likes nature, flowers and whatever else inspires her.

They added: The only drawback when we paint together is that an everyday chore like getting meals gets delayed; so we have developed a shift pattern!

"We love meeting people and really enjoy encouraging those who think they can’t paint."

Their studio will be open from 10am to 5pm every day during h.Art.