TWO artists are appealing to others in the city to join them in a bid to create a new studio and gallery in York's Fishergate Postern Tower.

Mark Jacobs and Helen Brigham, of Walmgate, have already got planning permission to develop the 16th century Grade I listed building in Piccadilly as well as scheduled ancient monument consent.

Now they want to gather a group of artists together to submit a bid for lottery cash through Yorkshire Arts.

They estimate it will cost £10,000 to create gallery and studio space.

Mark said: "York has plenty of commercial galleries, but very few art venues. We feel that this space could be used by artists to meet other artists and share ideas."

He said they hoped the ground floor and first flood would be gallery space, which could be opened up to the public, attracting many visitors who pass while walking round the walls.

The second floor would form studio space.

"The building hasn't been opened to the public for over 100 years," said Mark.

Helen said they had lots of friends who were interested in using the space and were also contacting existing arts groups in York.

"If anyone is excited by the prospect of being involved in setting up an arts venue in a beautiful historic building in the centre of York please contact us," she said.

Anyone interested should telephone 01904 634115.

Updated: 12:34 Thursday, September 20, 2001