A FATHER and daughter who are both artists are celebrating their success as one was awarded £1,000 grant and another is fundraising for charity.

Alex McGarry, is a sole trader who has been running her business, Alex McGarry Art, for five years, selling her oil paintings and prints of wildlife through a series of exhibitions.

And her father Pip McGarry, a professional wildlife artist, who is holding a fundraising event to raise money for Marwell Zoo.

He previously raised £80,000 for charity through selling his pieces.

Now his daughter has followed in his footsteps.

Her work has been on display nationally, including places such as York, Bristol and Worthing, with Alex now using her town centre premises as both a gallery and a studio. Visitors will be able to see her at work in the window of the shop painting her latest piece, as well as being able to purchase the artworks.

Test Valley Borough Council has awarded Alex a £1,000 Independent Retailer Grant.

Alex said: “This is a new venture for me and hopefully I’m offering something different to those who want to come in and see my work. The support I’ve had from the borough council has been really appreciated and I’m extremely grateful.”

Ward member, Iris Andersen, added: “Alex has had her works on display all over the UK so to have her opening a shop here in Andover is a brilliant addition to our retail offering.

“I’m sure shoppers will enjoy popping in to see Alex hard at work, and I’m pleased that we’ve been able to help her in this way.”

Recipients of the £1,000 grant firstly receive £500 after three months of trading and a further £500 six months later. To be eligible for the grant, new or existing independent businesses must occupy a town centre ground floor unit which has been vacant for at least one month.

Qualifying businesses include shops, restaurants and cafes. These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, financial management and use of the New Homes Bonus.

Meanwhile Mr McGarry’s art evening is taking place at the Masonic Hall in Andover for Scout groups on February 13, 22 and 23 and to the general public on Saturday, Febuary 8.

Pip came to prominence with his highly successful Meridian Television series in 2004, which was presented by Anneka Rice and has been the official ‘Artist in Residence’ at Marwell Zoological Park for 21 years.

As well as a painting demo, the evening event at the Masonic Hall will include a slide show from one of his many safaris. Tickets are £10 per head and include a basket meal.

Contact vince@aceframing.co.uk by Monday, February 3, for tickets.