A FORMER journalist turned artist has created what is likely to become an iconic image of Sale.

Eric Jackson, a former arts editor, TV critic and travel editor of the Manchester Evening News, as well as a lecturer in journalism, has returned to his first love of painting and particularly in northern poster art.

Eric says his aim is to make art fun, by combining a love of words and visual imagery.

The first series of works, of more than 40 images, which sell at some of the swankiest galleries, concentrate on the districts surrounding his native Manchester.

He said: "I spent an afternoon walking round Sale and picking up on the local buzz. Initially, I thought of doing the Washway Road, but in the end the canal, moorings and winding gear, which is a beautiful example of Industrial Revolution Manchester.

"I believe my posters have to capture the individual essence, peculiarities and mindset of an area.The words also came once I decided to feature a bonkers couple. I try to make my posters slightly surreal and weird, to raise a titter and an eyebrow."

When asked why he featured a couple, who one would imagine would be more at home on a beach than a canal towpath, he explains: "Why not? It's summer, it's the towpath, and you do see some sights down there!

"Like I said, bonkers and surreal, but it gets attention. Also, it's kind of cheesy, which reminds people of the travel posters of the twenties and thirties, which is my intention."

Eric produced the latest poster of Sale due to public demand who wanted more local images from the area, which includes Altrincham, w

The new poster is available from stalls Eric operates at both Urmston and Altrincham markets, GIFT in Hale village and at Chorlton Art market. For more information go to www.statementartworks.com