ART and the police may not appear to go hand-in-hand, but it's a different story for an ex-copper from Kingswood.

Darren Fox, 46, was an officer for 10 years and based at Bridewell police station until he retired for medical reasons in 1998.

Now he is studying a fine art degree at the University West of England, and one of his course requirements is to stage an exhibition of artworks within central Bristol.

But rather than waiting for the people to come to him, Darren decided to go to them.

For one week, he took his own art out into different parts of Bristol and asked people what they thought, and how it made them feel.

The second year art student said: "I've done some research on the benefits of public art, about how it contributes towards tourism and gives people a sense of identity – it's educational.

"I was interested in taking work on to the street to test this out, with a questionnaire, and wanted to get away from the practice of hiding stuff away in galleries.

"Through cold calling, not only do I stand the chance of offering the unsuspecting public a brief respite from the current financial gloom, I also hoped to introduce art to people who may not ordinarily attend a gallery."

Darren's locations included the podium at Broadmead; Castle Park; Queens Square; the Arnolfini; Millennium Square; College Green and Cabot Circus.

His work was mounted on an easel and was abstract in style, vibrant, colourful and open to interpretation.

He said: "I've been speaking to people and enjoying taking with them, it's a passport to conversation.

"The feedback has been quite revealing and bears out what has been reported by the Arts Council and Bristol City Council about the benefits."

Darren has worked in a number of fields since he retired from the force, including social services and health services.

But he has always been interested in art, and hopes to become a fabric designer once he completes his course.

He said: "This has been like a passion for me. I had a change of domestic circumstances and thought this was not something I can put off.

"I knew I would regret it if I did.

"It's never too late for a change – age should not be a barrier to opportunity."