AN art exhibition stirred visitors who dropped in for coffee and cakes at St Eustachius’ Parish Church on Friday, August 25.

More than 60 pictures were displayed by artists from all over the area, with everything from watercolours and acrylics, to pastels, pen and ink. Subjects ranged from moorland views and seascapes, to local scenes, including St Eustachius’ Church ruins. Some items were for sale.

Plymouth artist Phyllis Hughes spent the morning painting a view of the River Tavy, which was raffled as first prize.

The former Tavistock resident, who visits the church regularly, said: ‘When I came up on the bus I was amazed to be asked to do it. I used to sit and paint by the river.

‘I loved the nature, the butterflies and damselflies. I found it very inspiring for my art and you get very strong messages from God.

‘That’s why I come back. It’s a wonderful place.’

Crapstone artist Tony Arnold exhibited six pieces of abstract art, which attracted many people for their colour and movement.

‘I call two of them action paintings’, said Tony, whose style has evolved over 35 years of painting.

Coffee mornings are being held in church every Friday morning until the end of November and will resume after Christmas.

They are organised by the church’s craft group, each one having a different theme — including plants, wood carvings and crafts.