An artist based in Silloth has been shortlisted for a prestigious international award.

Simon Mccall, an NHS worker, decided to take up art again last year and began selling his works.

One painting of his daughters got noticed by Anthology, an arts and culture magazine and was shortlisted for their Cover Art Award.

Mr Mccall said: “It was a bit of a shock. I think it's brilliant because it's a piece of my work that I’m really proud of.

The piece is called ‘Sisters at Sunset’ with Simon’s daughters Imogen and Niamh sitting on the promenade at Silloth.

When asked if this would make him want to take up art full-time Simon said, “We’ll have to see how it goes.”

“If I win then maybe.”

The winner of the award will be announced on August 31.