FREE art lessons for disadvantaged young adults are being launched at a Banbury shop in memory of the owner's mother.

Barry Whitehouse, a professional painter who runs The Artery in Parson's Street, was supported in his endeavours from an early age by his mother Margaret.

Shortly before her death at 72 last year from cancer she and her son discussed how The Artery could honour her memory by providing art education to everyone.

The result was the Margaret Whitehouse Memorial Fund, a six-month programme of free education opening for applications on Thursday, March 2.

Mr Whitehouse said: "My mother started at art college and used to help out at primary schools, and supported me with my dad throughout my career.

"I started exhibiting when I was 14 and I couldn't drive to exhibitions, so they gave up a lot.

"We came from quite a poor background and they helped me move my career forward. It's something I want to do in a similar way."

Every six months three young people aged 18 to 25 will be offered lessons in a variety of artistic skills to broaden their creative horizons.

Overall participants will receive almost £1,000 worth of free art education and if The Artery can gather more funds the programme could be opened to bigger numbers.

Mr Whitehouse said: "As well as a traditional fine art class it helps with critical thinking, fine motor skills and abstract thought.

"It's useful for areas outside of art in all aspects of work. Everything we use or touch has been designed or made or created by someone."

The course is open to any adult aged 18 to 25 with no qualifications in art, even at GCSE level, and in a financial situation that means they cannot afford training.

At the same time a new Margaret Whitehouse Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievement has also been launched for the venue's regular students.

Every 12 months one student who has excelled in a particular piece of work will receive the award along with a £50 voucher to spend during the summer Banbury Art Fest.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the upcoming lessons should call The Artery on 01295 275150.

To help support the project with a donation visit tinyurl.com/h426gvb