CHAGFORD'S Helpful Holidays has been announced as the main sponsor for this year's Devon Open Studios event.

The self-catering cottage agency has also awarded bursaries to five talented new artists.

The event event offers people the opportunity to meet artists in their studios in some of the most beautiful and unexplored areas during the event, as well as the chance to buy art direct from the creators, view demonstrations, or even have a go themselves.

Helen Hayes of Helpful Holidays, said: 'This is a wonderful opportunity for holidaymakers to discover some of the great artwork produced in Devon.

'We have many very talented artists who have been inspired by the beauty of the county and these two special weeks are a chance to visit private studios and see artists working in their own spaces.'

The event runs from Saturday, September 7 to Sunday, September 22.

For more information, visit the website http://www.devonartistnetwork.co.uk">www.devonartistnetwork.co.uk, email [email protected]">[email protected] or call the Devon Open Studios office on 07768 164560.

Guides are also available at any Devon library, Devon Tourist Information Centre or major art venue.