Bury Art Society is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a special exhibition on Saturday, August 24.

The exhibition will launch at Bury Art Museum alongside the annual show of artworks from the society.

The society has exhibited at the museum since 1954, with judged shows taking place annually since 1990 and a 'People's Prize' which visitors can vote for.

The 75th anniversary exhibition will feature rare artworks from Bury's Permanent Collection, created by past members of the Society.

The display will feature paintings by artists including Mary Edyvean, Frank Hammond, Elizabeth Hesp, David Swithenbank, and sometime chairman of the Turner Society, Stanley Warburton.

Recognisable Bury scenes will be on display, as well as drawings by Tommy Valentine, a Freeman of the City of London, and material relating to the history of Bury Art Society lent by Bury Archives.

The oldest work in the special collection will be a pencil drawing from 1948 by John Bold.

It is a portrait of Bury author, broadcaster, and scriptwriter Tommy Thompson.

John Bold went on to join Bury Art Society, and was also a member of the Society of Modern Painters.

He also taught at Bury Arts and Crafts school.

Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture, economy, and skills at the council, said: "I am delighted that we are able to celebrate 75 years of the Bury Art Society.

"It is amazing to think that all those decades ago local artists came together to create and share their talent with the Bury community.

"To this day the society welcomes any budding artist whether beginner or seasoned professional, I would encourage anyone interested to get in touch.

"As a staple of Bury Art Museum I am very much looking forward to this special exhibition and to see works from local artists throughout Bury’s history.

"If you are looking for a great way to spend time this bank holiday weekend, come along to Bury Art Museum and enjoy all our local artists have to offer."

The society was founded in 1949 by William Bruce.

The first president was Walter Fletcher, then MP for Bury and a keen amateur water-colourist.

Later Presidents included the artist LS Lowry of neighbouring Salford, who became involved through his friendship with Percy Warburton, the Head of Bury School of Art.

The society now meets every Monday at the Blackburne Hall, which is adjacent to Bury Parish Church.

There are currently more than 70 members, and all those interested in art, whether beginners, amateurs, or professionals, are welcome to join.