A SERIES of art exhibitions are to be mounted in Huddersfield’s empty shops.

The windows will be used to display work as part of The Spirit of Huddersfield project.

Photography students from Kirklees College are to team up with the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership and The Sharp Agency to create the new galleries.

The first ones will be launched on March 9, in empty shops in John William Street and Northumberland Street.

And talks are underway with landlords of other empty properties to try and get them involved in the scheme.

The students will capture images that are unique to the town, such as the Galpharm Stadium and the Town Hall, as well as people and events.

They want to showcase Huddersfield in the hope that more new businesses will be tempted to move in.

The students’ work is to be judged by a panel of experts and there will be prizes for the best exhibits, thanks to sponsorship by the College and the Rotary Club of Huddersfield.

Richard Sharp, a partner in the Sharp Agency, said: “As an ex-student of Kirklees College and someone who is passionate about my home town, this idea is about inspiring our young creative talent to brighten the town even in difficult times”.

College creative industries tutor Karen Matula said: “I’m really pleased our photography students are involved with the Spirit of Huddersfield.

“They are dedicating a lot of time to it and I know they will come up with some fantastic images for the town centre galleries”.