Local businesswoman inspires Pontefract Art Club's exhibition and fundraiser for The Prince of Wales Hospice

Michelle Grainger took on the charity challenges as part of her 50th birthday celebrations and raised over £40,000 for the Hospice, in just one year.

And now Pontefract Art Club members will be donating their paintings from this year's annual exhibition to raise vital funds for the Hospice.

Rhona Chrichton, the Secretary and Treasurer of Pontefract Art Club said she was inspired by the efforts of local business woman Michelle after reading about her in the Express.

Michelle's fundraising efforts included taking on the world’s longest zip wire, a five aside football tournament with Jono Lancaster and hosting battle of the bands.

Rhona said: “When Michelle Grainger raised the money for the Prince of Wales Hospice, I spoke to their fundraising officer.

“She has inspired the art club to do the same, so we’re selling each painting for £10 to anyone who wishes to buy them, all of the members of the club are donating a painting to be sold.

“It’s important for all clubs to do things like this for the community, a lot of us are retired so I think it’s nice that we are utilising our time to give back to society, it’s also good for us to expand our repertoire.

“It’s not costing us any money and we’re excited to showcase the different styles of art we’ve been focusing on, there are some very talented artists in our community and we’re each glad to be doing our bit for a brilliant cause.”

The club has been focusing on abstract paintings and local landmarks among other themes and styles.

The exhibition will be held at Pontefract Library and will begin on Tuesday March 24 until Thursday April 7th, the public are invited to admire and purchase the art while being able to meet the artists.