A North Yorkshire couple have converted part of their farm into an art studio in a bid to beat the crisis in the cattle industry.

Peter and Anne Lang have decided to diversify after struggling through several farming crises over the last 15 years.

Now a barn at the couple's farm, Broadway Foot, at Hawnby, near Helmsley, has been converted into an art studio where art teacher Anne plans to hold painting courses.

And the new art centre, which will enable Anne to expand her teaching activities, is set to give the local tourist industry a boost.

"We have been farming now since the mid-1980s and it has been a real struggle and very difficult to make a profit especially because of events in the industry in recent years," she said.

"We're now planning to reduce the size of our herd and concentrate on running the art centre."

Art courses in various techniques and styles are set to attract students from around the country and overseas, said Anne.

"I have been water colour painting for 17 years and I am qualified to teach but we will be recruiting tutors for other styles," she added.

"The courses will run all year round and will bring us much needed income during the winter months.

"The courses are not residential so our students will be staying in hotels and B&Bs in the local area giving the tourist industry a bit of a boost."

The intensive art courses will last from between three to five days and will cost from £35 per day.

"It is a beautiful part of the country and the students will be painting the scenery and, of course, our cows," said Anne.

"The idea that they will be doing all this on a proper working farm will hopefully be an added attraction."

The Langs put their proposal for a barn conversion to the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service 18 months ago and gained its full backing.

They were given a grant by North Yorkshire County Council, and they had to seek planning permission from North York Moors National Park Authority.

"Getting permission to convert the barn was the final hurdle and building work is already nearing completion," said Anne.

"If I was to advise other farmers thinking of diversifying I would say don't give up it is hard work but it's worth it."

If you are interested in attending an art course at Broadway Foot Farm, contact Anne Lang on 01439 798214.

Updated: 08:55 Wednesday, February 07, 2001