A CREATIVE county resident has risked it all to follow his dream of becoming a professional artist. Damon Hall (above), of Leigh Sinton, has just opened his own art studio in City Walls Road, Worcester, after quitting his job as a production supervisor in Malvern. The 30-year-old decided to take the plunge after receiving praise from friends for his paintings.

He said: "My colleagues were a little surprised to say the least when I told them what my plans were. They had no idea I was a part time artist.

Mr Hall specialises in contemporary art using mainly oil and acrylic paints and is keen to take on commissions. Picture by Sam Furlong. 07547202