Ref. 27078A CHAPMANSLADE painter is preparing to say goodbye to some of his favourite pieces of art before they are shipped off to America.

Jim Dales, of High Street, is sending 13 paintings and 13 drawings for a display in Gettysburg.

He was invited to exhibit after being spotted by an American art critic at a show in London.

A representative from the Gettysburg College saw Mr Dales' work at the Barbican Centre in London.

He was originally asked to put on an exhibition at the College in March next year, which clashed with a pre-booked show in London.

Mr Dales said: "I thought they would put the date back but instead they brought it forwards and now I have until next Friday to get my paintings on the boat."

The exhibition will begin in October. Mr Dales has previously had work on display in Bath and Warminster. He has also lectured at Lancaster College of Art and painted full time in France.