Holmfirth's annual Artweek has almost made its half century.

This weekend sees the town’s 49th celebration of amateur and professional art, with a major exhibition of more than 2,000 works by 400-plus artists.

As well as the main show in Holmfirth Civic Hall, which can be seen from Sunday, July 5, to Saturday, July 11, there will be no fewer than 21 fringe events in shops, galleries and cafes around the Holme Valley.

All exhibits in the civic hall are for sale and for the first time in Artweek history there is to be an art and craft market on the stage of the upper hall.

Each year the event has a special showing of work by a featured artist in the hall’s Trevor Stubley Gallery. This time around two artists have been selected to share the gallery space. They are Holmfirth sculptor Martin Norman and embroidery artist Dianne Westmoreland, who is from Leek in Staffordshire.

Holmfirth Artweek is a local event with a national reputation. As one of the organisers, Richard Raby, says: “The majority of exhibitors are from the local area but large numbers of visitors come from all over the country to view and buy. It’s amazing how much artistic talent there is locally – this is what makes it such a success each year.”

The week of art was initially launched as a small fund-raiser for the Macmillan Cancer Support charity and made just over £100. It now raises thousands each year and has grown into one of the country’s largest community arts events.

Fringe venues this year include the Booth House Gallery, Holme Castle, The Olive Tree Bistro, Sculpture Lounge, Sid’s Cafe and Holmfirth Methodist Church, showing displays of photography, paintings, textile art, ceramics and sculpture.

A free 28-page guide book to the Fringe is available from libraries, tourist information centres and participants. During Artweek the Civic Hall will be stocking the guides.

Tickets for the main exhibition, which is open from 10am until 5pm on Sunday, July 5, and Saturday, July 11, and then from 10 am until 9pm Monday to Friday, are £2 for unlimited use.

The success of Artweek relies on a team of dedicated volunteers. More helpers are always needed. Anyone who would like to get involved should get in touch with the fundraising committee on 07801 307050. There is also information on www.holmfirthartweek.org.uk