THE magnificent scenery of the Yorkshire Dales can be an inspirational mecca for artists, according to tourism chiefs.

And they have launched a new campaign designed to highlight arts and crafts produced in the area and encouraging tourists and day trippers to seek them out and maybe get involved with the arts themselves.

The 'Cosy and Creative' campaign, which is the brainchild of Susan Briggs of the Dales Tourism Network, will signpost visitors towards the comprehensive range of experiences and places to buy art and craft produced by artisans across the Dales, and also provide details of courses available and nearby accommodation.

Well-known Dales based artists Josie Beszant and Ian Scott Massie have already lent their support to the campaign, and artists, craftspeople and makers across the Dales can become involved by signing up via www.dalestourism.com, while visitors can find out more about the campaign at www.dalesdiscoveries.com.