The Kingsbridge and South Hams Art Club Summer Exhibition got off to a lively start as people flocked to the Market Hall on Saturday.

Carol Deathridge, KASHAC, said: “The Mayor of Kingsbridge, Cllr Chris Povey, delighted the club members by performing the opening ceremony and was persuaded to clamber up a step ladder to pose for the cameras, which he did with great aplomb and good humour.”

In his opening speech Cllr Povey thanked the members of the club for inviting him to open the exhibition saying: “I know only too well the work that goes into putting on an art exhibition and I look forward greatly to seeing the work on display”.

He was shown around the hall by the Bill Buckby, chairman, and David White, secretary, of the club. Having been to art college himself, Cllr Povey was appreciative of the diversity of paintings, styles and subject matter, remarking on the high quality and talent of the work.

The picture selected by Joyce Houghton for her traditional “President’s Choice” was a humorous painting of a dog entitled “Bertie” by Jan Hammet, which was admired by all, including two particularly paintable and well behaved dogs. [RELATES TO PHOTO]

Geoff Goodwin, exhibition organiser, said: “It seems a short time since the spring exhibition in May and I know that the membership has been busily preparing their work to exhibit again in the current one. “The team worked industriously to set up the panels and prepare the hall until late last night therefore it is important to mention the countless invaluable little tasks that are undertaken without anything being said that go towards making the exhibition such a success.”

Geoff went on to say “At this exhibition we have included a touching tribute to Dennis Regan, whose funeral members attended yesterday. He was my predecessor and mentor in setting up past exhibitions and a former chairman of the club. He will be sadly missed by all.”

The exhibition continues until Sunday, August 27, from 10.30am to 4.30pm except on the last day when it closes at 3pm. Entrance is free.