Art lovers in Norfolk have been invited to a prestigious local exhibition featuring over 400 paintings, sculptures, ceramics and photographs from regular contributors or new talents.

Art lovers in Norfolk have been invited to a prestigious local exhibition featuring over 400 paintings, sculptures, ceramics and photographs from regular contributors or new talents.

The 18th Annual Art Exhibition and Sales of Works of Art organised by the Rotary Club of Swaffham at the end of October will also host a selection of paintings by Kenneth Denton, a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Mr Denton, who lives in town is also a member of the International Society Marine Painters and the Royal Society of Marine Artists and will be available at a preview evening to talk to visitors about his work and the paintings on display.

Denis Bishop, speaking for the Rotary Club of Swaffham said: “Over the past 18 years the Annual Swaffham Rotary Art Exhibition has gained in status and increased the number of popular and quality artists presenting work for display. It has gained the reputation with both exhibitors and visitors for being the ideal venue to display works of art for sale and the 'place to go' for the purchase of local and regional quality art work.”

He added: “This year for the first time, visitors will have the opportunity to select the item in the exhibition that they enjoyed most.

There will also be a further opportunity to enter a prize draw - again this year we are delighted to be able to offer a painting by Rotary member and accomplished artist Malcolm Whittley as the main prize.”

Mr Bishop explained the proceeds will be donated to local and national Rotary charities and said the club raised over £3,500 at last year's event.

The event will be held over the weekend of Friday, October 31, Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2 at the Assembly Rooms, Swaffham.

The ticket only preview evening on starts at 7.30pm, and the exhibition will be held the following two days from 10am to 4pm

Tickets are available from any Rotary Club Member and Ceres Bookshop, Swaffham or on the door. The viewing starts at 7.30pm on Friday, October 31 with the event being opened by the Club President and selling will start at 8pm.

For further information visit www.swaffhamrotary.org.uk or contact Nigel and Sheila Chamber for tickets, artists' registration forms on 01760 722 351.