ARTIST Lizzie Carr, aunt of Bury pop star Suzanne Shaw, is enjoying her own spell in the limelight.

The former Bury Convent pupil is currently having her work, including six huge painted canvasses, exhibited at Bolton's Octagon Theatre.

Lizzie, who hails from Foundry Street, Bury, has been painting professionally since 1997, after running her own fashion business.

Since then she has obtained commissions from as far afield as the United States and is displaying around 50 pieces of artwork at this, her first solo exhibition.

Lizzie said: "It's an absolute dream come true and an honour for me, considering that I've only been a painter for four years."

Taking her inspiration from the people and personalities, particularly John Lennon, Lizzie, who now lives in Ashton-under-Lyne, has a passion for painting and drawing faces.

And one famous face she drew before it became well-known was that of her niece own Suzanne.

The pencil drawing "Suzanne's Dream", with the statue of liberty in the background shows the young pop star as a teenager and child.

"It was always her ambition to go to America and New York in particular," said Lizzie.

She added: "She's a lovely kid and a nice person. I'm so pleased for her in what she's done, it's fantastic for anyone to have the opportunity to express themself through something like painting or music."

The Journey exhibition runs until October 20.