AN artist who grew up on a farm near Allendale in the North Pennines is preparing to show her latest exhibition near Brampton.

Christina Hargraves has strong memories of working in hayfields, which will no doubt have influenced her new collection of work called Meadows, which is being displayed at RSPB Geltsdale.

She has a deep love of the countryside and also draws inspiration from the beautiful surroundings of where she now lives in Lanercost, near Brampton.

“If I were to be told that I could only paint wildflowers and meadows for the rest of my life, I would be perfectly happy! I feel very privileged to be invited to exhibit at Geltsdale, as it is one of my favourite places,” said Christina.

“I just love the peace and solitude to be found in the place.”

Meadows opened to the public on Wednesday and will be on show in the gallery space at Stagsike Cottages – the information point at RSPB Geltsdale, every day until Sunday, September 11, between 9am and 5pm.

Farmland warden at Geltsdale Ian Ryding said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Christina Hargraves for this special exhibition.

“Meadows are an iconic part of our British countryside, but sadly just three per cent of those that existed in the 1930s now remain in the UK.

“As home to a rich variety of wildlife, including wild flowers, insects and birds, meadows are very important and we hope this exhibition will highlight just how special they are and why they need to be conserved.”

For more information on events and wildlife spectacles at Geltsdale visit rspb.org.uk/geltsdale