AN afternoon sketching a postcard of Clitheroe proved to be enough to change one man's career for good.

Michael Bentley, 39, was doodling the town scene four years ago when he realised how easy he found drawing and painting.

Now he has opened his first gallery in Whalley New Road where his watercolours are being snapped up for up to £1,300.

Michael said: "I just picked up the postcard and started sketching it. It was just a sudden urge to start painting -- I just got up one day and it was there. I still have one of my first drawings and it is hardly any different from the paintings I produce now.

"I never had a lesson, I just do loose watercolours of landscapes around East Lancashire and try and make them as atmospheric as possible."

Michael, of Paris, Ramsgreave, Wilpshire, has been exhibiting work at the professional gallery Frames and Pictures in Whalley formerly owned by Michael Bridget.

He said: "I was finding that my work was selling just as soon as I put them in the shop. I couldn't keep up with demand so I started doing commissioned work.

"I am hoping to feature other professional artists in the gallery as well as limited edition prints. I believe my style is unique."

Mr Bentley travelled across the Middle East and South America with the Parachute Regiment, becoming involved with the platoon patrols over his three-year service. He has also extensively travelled independently.

He has now leased the premises in Whalley New Road and revamped the derelict interior with new wood floors throughout.

The gallery was officially opened on Saturday. Although the gallery is currently on the ground floor there is potential to expand to two other floors.

There are 50 works on show ranging from very small pictures at £140. For more information call the gallery on 01254 240600.