Carlisle architect Malcolm Wilson scooped the People's Choice award at this year's C-Art exhibition at Rheged.

Mr Wilson, of Black Box Architects, showcased three pictures of Ullswater in the Cumbrian Artist of the Year exhibition, which finished on November 5.

He said: "It was a lovely surprise. It was a real mixed bag of art this year and I knew I was one of three shortlisted for the people's choice award."

Mr Wilson painted three pictures of Ullswater from the same place at different times of the day.

He said: "I painted one early morning and one at midday and one at night and they displayed them together.

"They were painted at a spot about half way down the lake in the Watermillock area looking across to Hallin Fell."

Mr Wilson has painted since he was a boy and was inspired by a teacher from the north east.

He said: "I recently bumped into my old art teacher when I was having a meal out in Durham.

"It was 47 years ago since I last saw her. She was a lady who pushed me right from the start.

"She was in her mid-80s and I told her all about the exhibition at Rheged so I hope she got the chance to visit. I will be writing to tell her the news.

"It was nice to see her - a real coincidence. I learnt a lot from her all those years ago.

"She was the one person who pushed me hard as a teenager and supported me all through school life. If there is anyone who deserves the award it has to be her and I will be taking it over there in person.

"She will be extremely proud to hear that one of her old pupils in the 1970s was so well received here. I owe her the life I lead now."

C-art organisers said: "It was a close call with Lily Greenwood and Daniel Ibbotson in the top three voted for by visitors to the exhibition.

"Thank you to everyone that voted and congratulations to Malcolm."

Mr Wilson's paintings will be returning to Carlisle next week and he is looking for somewhere to hang them permanently.