FRESH from winning a silver medal in ‘Art in the Open’ – Ireland’s plein air painting competition – Hindhead-based artist Roger Dellar set up his easel in Haslemere High Street.

The Haslemere Art Society president was busy capturing views closer to home, together with fellow members, ahead of the group’s 122nd annual exhibition on show at the town’s Educational Museum for a week from Saturday, September 10.

Painting alongside Mr Dellar, were Alan Thomson, Robbie Murdoch, Ruth Bacmeister, Barbara Murray, Annie Bewsey and Clare Bowen. It was the sixth year, members have gathered to paint the town.

Their High Street paintings, including Mr Dellar’s celebration of Haslemere’s Costa coffee shop, will be included in a big group show at the museum that will fill two galleries.

Mr Dellar told The Herald: “I also came second in the ‘Quick Draw’ competition in Wexford, in which we had two hours to paint the main street. More than 170 artists took part from 15 countries. It was a very enjoyable experience and I loved the Guinness.

“We were painting in the High Street to try and get people more aware of Haslemere Art Society. People were intrigued by what we were doing and it’s a good way to meet up and hopefully attract more members and more visitors to our annual exhibition.I just like painting outside. It’s such a challenge giving yourself two hours to paint in a swiftly changing situation, but I enjoy it.

“I’ll also be showing my painting of The Swan Inn and the corner junction with Petworth Road.”

• For more information www.haslemere.com/artsoc