THE founder of a creative business in the Cotswolds has announced she will be stepping down from her role as leader.

Cotswold Open Studios celebrates artists, sculptors, and other creative types in the district, who otherwise may go unknown to many locals. Tessa Webb has run three Open Studios for the Cirencester area after establishing the event in 2010.

Yet this year, she has decided to hand over the baton to artist Charlotte Hill from Artventure.

"I’m really proud of all that we have achieved for the artists, designers, makers and other businesses in the area," said Tessa, who runs the event every other year. "It has been a real team effort and I’m very thankful to everyone who has helped.

The initiative has received two awards in the past three years, both from Cirencester Chamber of Commerce. Earlier this year it was awarded a Creative Champions accolade.

Each event has made over £25,000 for businesses and charities, with around 2,000 visitors coming from all over the country each time.

Tessa is now looking for a new job and will be handing the baton on to Charlotte who runs Artventure, setting up exhibitions for emerging artists and selling their work at affordable prices. The next Cotswold Open Studios takes place on weekends from 13-28 June 2015.

More details on 07724 733159.