NEW artist studios were unveiled yesterday by some famous faces in the grounds of Haworth Art Gallery.

Grade II listed buildings including the former stables, motor house, petrol store and potting shed have now been transformed into studios and exhibition space thanks to a Heritage Lottery grant of £552,500.

Cutting the ribbon were gallery patrons Eric Knowles from Nelson, who earned fame on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow, and Pollyanna Pickering, an internationally renowned wildlife artist.

Other changes include an extension to the potting shed, a new entrance to the stables, new roof lighting, and the replacing of a canopy and windows.

Cllr Ken Moss, leisure and arts boss for Hyndburn Council, was at the grand opening and said that he was pleased with the backing the project had received.

He said: "It is wonderful, we have invested a lot of time into this project and the Heritage Lottery gave the gallery a very large grant.

"It is now something that can be enjoyed for years to come, it is a long-term investment.

"A lot of credit has to be given to gallery co-ordinator Yvonne Robins who has been a driving force behind this project.

"Eric and Pollyanna are no strangers to Haworth both being patrons of the gallery and to have that kind of support meant an awful lot.

"There will be lots of events held in the stables and the other buildings, we want to make it a very interactive experience."

It was also a special day for Blackburn College student Lauren Miller, 20, who was chosen above several other professionals to rebrand the art gallery along with 14 fellow students.

Lauren, who is studying BA (Hons) graphic communication, said: "I have learnt a lot. It has been beneficial to get out of the classroom and get chatting with real clients and working on real briefs.

"My friends and family are really impressed, they can't wait to see my branding being used."

Gillian Berry, deputy manager at the gallery, said: "Lauren's work was chosen because it clearly connected to the arts and crafts buildings at Haworth.

"Lauren listened to what we wanted and we envision this approach will help her to achieve success in the future."