TALENTED youngsters from across Burnley are to showcase their work at a pioneering art exhibition.

Mid Pennine Gallery, Yorke Street, is to host STart, an exhibition created by pupils from the borough's schools to show off the talents of young people in the town across the North West.

It is the first dedicated student exhibition of its type in the area and it is hoped the event, organised by Mid Pennine Arts, will form the blueprint for an annual exhibition.

And gallery bosses said visitors would be amazed at the quality of exhibits.

Claire Joyce, visual arts officer for Mid Pennine Arts said: "All the work is of exceptional quality and maturity.

"We were thrilled with the standard of the work submitted".

The exhibition, funded by Creative Partnership East Lancashire, an organisation formed to promote arts in disadvantaged areas, opens tomorrow and includes paintings, sculptures and sketches.

One of those taking part is 14-year-old Habergham High pupil Win Lok Chan who got into art after teachers praised her work.

The youngster, who wants a career helping children get involved in art, is on work experience at the gallery. She said. " I am really excited I can show off my work to my class. "

As part of the exhibition which runs until March 25, Saturday morning workshops will be held for young people.