RESIDENTS of a sheltered housing scheme celebrated their artistic achievements on Friday with an exhibition of their own work and a birthday party.

The residents, who live at Keats House in Headless Cross, have been taking part in council-run watercolour classes since March and wanted to mark the end of the course.

Most of the budding artists are in their 80s, though one celebrated her 92nd birthday this week.

Community support services manager Pam Dixon said: "The classes have really helped the participants, giving them a new interest to pursue which keeps them active but allows them to work at their own pace.

"Painting gives them a great sense of achievement and many of them now spend time painting during the week, not just on Friday afternoons.

"For many people this course has provided them with a constructive way to fill the time when they are alone, as well as bringing them together for a common interest once a week."

As part of the celebrations, councillors were invited to view the work.