AN "innovative" exhibition of work by more than 20 local potters opens at a Wirral art studio next week.

The challenge was thrown down to potters who attend workshops at the Rathbone Studio in Birkenhead, to create individual plates and platters decorated with different pattern and design techniques.

The result is an exhibition that aims to show the diversity of clay and is called ‘Inspiration On A Plate’.

It will be on view at the venue on Argyle Street from this Monday (January 8) until February 3. Opening times will be Tuesday to Saturday from 2-5pm.

A special opening event will be held at the venue on Sunday (January 7) from midday-4pm, which will be opened by the Mayor, Councillor Jerry Williams.

A spokesperson for the Rathbone Studio said: "We all use plates, an everyday item, but potters of the Rathbone Studio have bestowed their own ideas, thoughts and expression on to the plates they have hand made.

"And, alongside the plates and platters, will be 3D ceramic pieces that the potters have created, showing their unique talents and abilities. Nothing more than inspiring.

"It is an exhibition showing what can be produced with the many different clays and finishes that are available at the Rathbone Studio, the premises that were once the home of the world famous Della Robbia Pottery in Birkenhead and still home to creative potters today."