A NORTH-EAST museum is launching a new group to provide a voice for young people.

The Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, is looking for youngsters aged eleven to 15 to join its Young Voices group, which will offer members opportunities such as meeting artists, exploring behind the scenes, seeing new exhibitions before they go public, trying new art techniques and learning new skills.

There will be a launch event at the museum on Saturday, March 8, from 10.30am to 3pm and the group, funded the Bridge North-East, will meet four times a year thereafter.

Those attending the event will get the chance to find out more about the museum’s ongoing Gavin Turk exhibition, followed by a talk by artist Julia Bickerstaff on the subject of What is Neon?

After lunch, participants can design their own neon with a fluorescent pencil and recreate the designs in luminescent wire.

There will also be a feedback session to gather ideas and to find out about future activities.

Places for the free event, which includes refreshments and lunch, are limited and must be pre-booked.

To book a place, or for information, call Amy Bainbridge at the museum on 01833-694602 or email amy.bainbridge@thebowesmuseum.org.uk.