An art and photography exhibition is being held in the Mall over the next two weeks.

Blackburn College University Centre students from six art-based courses is displaying their work in two empty units in the shopping centre.

The work will be in the old Peter Jackson unit and an old optician unit opposite Halifax and Marks and Spencer.

They will also be holding a digital exhibition of the work on top of the physical display.

One of the fine art students, Ian Mathison, is displaying a piece about his experience earlier this year with Covid-19.

He said: "The whole experience of putting work out in front of people - particularly painting or 3D work there is another dimension you can see in the flesh,

"We are all really excited about the fact we are going to get work in front of people and hopefully get some attention from it.

""Last year the graduating class were stuck with a digital exhibition so we are happy we get both."

Work from final year students on the BA (Hons) fine art, fashion and textiles, photography, animation, illustration and graphics design courses will be displayed from June 12 to June 23 in the two shops.

Another fine art student, Melisa Metcalfe, 26, said: "I have a young son and so I chose to study in Blackburn as it was handy and local as I had other important commitments.

"Next year I am hoping to go on to do a PGCE in primary education with the aim of becoming a primary school teacher.

"The course at Blackburn College has been absolutely brilliant for me and I am excited to move on, but will miss my time studying Fine Art.”

Assistant head of school Creative, Digital and Community, Jenna Gardner said: “This year has certainly been challenging for our degree students - many have had to adapt their practice and make significant changes to the way in which they work.

"We are incredibly proud of the way they have all risen to the challenge and produced amazing work despite these circumstances."