A PAINTING of a back street canal in Liverpool could be sold for more than £15,000 when it goes under the hammer this weekend.

The oil on canvas is the work of the renowned English painter Brian Shields (1951-1997) whose style was often likened to ‘matchstick men’ artist L S Lowry.

Shields, who began life as a trainee chef, is best known for painting industrial scenes of northern Britain, often signing his work ‘Braaq,’ a nickname that he acquired in his school days.

Although successful as a living artist, Shields was made bankrupt towards the end of his career and died prematurely of a brain haemorrhage.

His paintings regularly sell for large sums at auction and Back Street Canal, Liverpool, will carry an estimate of £15,000-£18,000 when it is auctioned at Addison's, Barnard Castle, on Saturday (December 7).

Senior auctioneer and valuer Richard Edwards said: “This painting is a fine example of the work for which this artist is renowned.

“It is full of interest with men, women, children, babies in prams and dogs all going about their daily lives.

“His paintings are well collected and usually sell for a considerable value.

The sale starts at 10am. For more details go to www.addisons-auctioneers.co.uk