Large Modern Miniature Art Gallery Titled 'Striders', based on the design of a Georgian building, with steps leading up either side of the columned doorway, front opening with central staircase and four rooms, all hung with hand worked paintings initialled 'MAH', fully furnished with handmade rugs, figures and furniture, 91cm wide 45cm depth and 90cm high, fitted for electricity

The Strider was named after a much loved 'Strider Puss' who was part of the family for 17 years and can be seen in the gallery

Lots 2013-2015 were constructed by Colonel Colin Heap over a period of approximately 10 years to house a collection of original miniature paintings, hand stitched floor rugs, hand embroidered cushions and upholstered furniture seats created by his wife Bobbie.

Margaret Anne Heap (known to friends and family as Bobbie) studied fabric design as a young adult whist working with Fenwicks in Newcastle, and later went on to become an active member of the Embroiderers Guild. Fabric art and embroidery has remained a passion and she has perfected the art of freehand embroidery; evolving designs as she works. All her creations are individual and unique.

Bobbie also attended the York School of Art in the late 1960s and continued to hone her skills with her paint brush throughout her adult life. She has been a prolific artist painting across a variety of styles including landscape, still life and abstract and has mastered the art of painting in oils, water colour and mixed media.

Her passion for all things miniature began as a young girl during the war years when paper was a precious commodity. She used to make use of every scrap of paper to draw what she saw or capture her imaginings. And likewise with any threads or fabrics that were going spare.

Bobbie has been a keen members of art groups in the Yorkshire dales and contributed to many art exhibitions, including the Zillah Bell gallery in Thirsk. She has shared her skills by running numerous workshops for both aspiring artists and embroiderers in the Dales and Northumberland areas.

In 2010 the Newcastle arm of the BBC heard about Bobbie’s work and made a short documentary about her which was featured on BBC Look North on 12 May 2010. The broadcast, according to the documentary maker, ‘went down very well’ and led to people getting in touch and coming to visit Bobbie in her Art studio. Those that visited were often inspired to pick up a paint brush or needle and have a go themselves.

Colin and Bobbie met whilst serving with the RAF in Egypt in the 1950s. Their love affair lasted a lifetime, and these galleries and little works of art are a wonderful symbol of that enduring love.