THE Beach Hut Gallery first flung open its creative doors way back in November 2009.

The gallery, which is part of Kents Bank Station, near Grange-over-Sands, has one of the most arresting locations in Cumbria, nestled next to the railway on the promenade, overlooking the inspiring and sweeping panorama of Morecambe Bay.

Beach Hut is managed by a co-operative of artists. Founder members were Beverley White, Judy Evans, Tina Balmer and Chris Benefield. Apparently, they held a short trial exhibition in August 2009 and were overwhelmed by the people who visited the show and bought work. Following a refit and redecoration helped by donations from the Cooperative Society NW and Northern Rail, Beach Hut Gallery officially opened. "All the artists had a hand in shaping The Beach Hut," explains Judy. "Some cutting plaster board and laying floors, others looking at the administration of the gallery and helping with the marketing." With its tenth anniversary on the horizon, the gallery remains a cooperative with the ethos of 'helping artists help themselves,' managed by printmaker and painter, Beverley White; painter, Laura Pendlebury; ceramicist, Sally Toms; fused glass maker, Fran Brown; and Martin Copley, who creates ceramic sculpture. Judy Evans remains a director, with Susan Pettman and Clyde Olliver associate members.

Beach Hut Gallery's current exhibition is Small Pictures Show. Winter opening hours until February 23 are Friday and Saturday only 10.30am-4.30pm. Picture framing is also available. For further information visit www.thebeachhutgallery.co.uk.