A new centre for people to explore their creative flair is set to open its doors in Poundbury.

The Dorset Centre for Creative Arts is situated at Parkway Farm Business Park, which houses Weymouth College's successful stonemasonry department.

On Saturday, October 3 the centre will be welcoming residents to the facility and giving them the chance to find out more about its range of unique masterclasses.

The centre promises to offer a high quality experience for those interested in the creative arts with sessions taught by industry experts including artists and craft specialists.

The masterclasses and specialist qualifications on offer aim to develop creative skills and knowledge in a relaxed environment.

Dorset residents are being encouraged to attend the centre’s free launch event on Saturday, October 3 from 9am to 3pm.

Visitors will be able to see the centre and its facilities, get involved in taster activities, see demonstrations and find out more about the new masterclasses on offer.

There will also be a chance to talk to some of the artists involved with the centre.

Nigel Evans, interim principal at Weymouth College, said: "This centre represents a real resource for residents across Dorset to engage with, and be part of, a high quality Creative Arts Centre.

"The artists involved in delivering our masterclasses are all engaged in professional practice and we hope that everyone will benefit from all the events, courses and opportunities that the centre will give us."

Sarah Drew, director of Dorset Centre for the Creative Arts, added: "We have a wealth of artists, and craft specialists in this county, and we are hoping that the centre will form a comfortable environment for artists to meet, exhibit work exchange ideas, and pass on skills through a range of high quality courses, guest lectures, and exhibitions."

Masterclasses starting at the centre from November include sessions in drawing, bookbinding, counselling skills, creative writing, drama, basketry, landscape photography, screenwriting, wood carving. painting in watercolours, storytelling and stone carving.

Anyone who is interested in joining a masterclass can visit dorsetcentreforthecreativearts.co.uk