A GROUP of Lakeland artists are offering the public an early preview of their latest work ahead of the opening of their own studio and gallery space next year.

The Makers Mill at Keswick will officially open early in 2019 but visitors will be welcome during this week's Sneak Peek Week, which runs until Sunday, September 16.

Around a dozen local artists, sculptors, designers and manufacturers, have got together to create their own work and display areas at the trendy riverside location, producing everything from fine art painting to ceramics and pottery. Among them is Alison Critchlow, a former Cumbrian Artist of the Year.

The three-storey building in Greta Side is being converted into four work studios, plus a shared gallery to showcase the artists' work, along with accommodation on the top floor.

Owner Luke Harding, of MOS Bespoke Furniture, lives there and has been renovating the former joinery business premises for three years since he bought it with his partner Sophie Wilson: "It flooded during Storm Desmond not long after we got it but the bottom floor is now ready and the rest will be completed in 2019 when we will open fully to the public," explained Luke.

Glass, woodwork and sculptures are among the unique hand-crafted pieces already being produced at Makers Mill, along with items in material, wool and textiles. The artists using a studio there include Sara Le Gris, who specialises in creating art from beachcombing for glass, and Keswick-based Tonia Gilliatt, who said that they would like people to go and see what they are creating there, both individually and as a group.

She added: "There are a lot of different artists in Cumbria all working away in their own private studios or in sheds at the bottom of their gardens but Makers Mill has created a hub where people can get a clearer vision of all the effort that goes into producing handmade art products."

There will be demonstrations, workshops and starter courses run by artists, while items will be available to buy during Sneak Peek Week. Makers Mill is situated behind Otley Road car park and will be open 10am-4pm throughout the week. Demonstrations during the opening For further information, go to Facebook.com/themakersmill.