"The Deane Sisters": one of the 33 paintings up for adoption

The Victoria Art Gallery in Bath says local businesses and individuals can "adopt" one of their paintings, pay for its restoration and then display it for a year.

A total of 33 paintings all need cleaning and preserving through the scheme.

A spokesperson for the Gallery told BBC News Online: "This is a brand new idea for us. There are a range of paintings that need to be updated, including landscapes and portraits, with the most expensive worth around �1,500."

Studio visit

Jon Benington, Curator of the Gallery, added: "Not all of the Gallery's pictures are suitable for public display as many of the works are very old and in need of restoration.

"This scheme allows an organisation or individual to take one of these works under their wing.

"They will be asked to cover the cost of the picture's restoration - which can be as little as �200 - and be able to visit the studio where the picture is being restored.

"As well as enjoying having the picture with them for that time they will also be insuring that the work of art can be enjoyed by people for many years to come," he added.