PREVIOUSLY unseen works by a local artist whose paintings have been exhibited around the world are to go on show in Ilkley.

Marie Walker Last died at her home in the town last year, shortly after celebrating her 100th birthday.

Before her death Marie had mentioned that she would like something to be done with the contents of her studio in Menston, which had been virtually unused for the previous decade.

A subsequent search of the studio uncovered a ‘treasure trove’ of earlier paintings and drawings that will form part of an exhibition at The Manor House this summer.

More than 60 works in total will feature in the display which takes place from Thursday, June 14 to Sunday, June 17 with viewings available between 10am and 5pm daily.

The artist’s works feature in many prestigious collections including those of The Bank of England and the Universities of Leeds, Bradford and York.

Her paintings were also exhibited in London, Paris, Athens, Florence and Australia - and, locally, in Ilkley’s Manor House.

A spokeswoman for the new exhibition’s organisers said: “Not for many years has such a large body of her work been available for viewing and purchase – and probably never will be again.

“On show and for sale will be over 60 works at a wide spread of prices, which we hope will enable this much loved, admired and internationally-exhibited artist to be acquired by all who wish to own a painting or drawing by her.

“All this coincides with an exciting new beginning for the Manor House in Ilkley that is being entrusted to the people of the town as an Art and Cultural Centre for the future.

“In years past Marie had shown her paintings in exhibitions there, in the historic building, and we can think of no more appropriate space in which to hold this exhibition and provide an opportunity for these paintings to find new homes in the local area and beyond.”

Entrance to the exhibition is free and all works on show will be available to buy. For more details visit www.mariewalkerlast.com .