Local arts group Marlborough Artists are celebrating their 60th anniversary next month with a special exhibition in the town hall.

There will be paintings in all media, glass and ceramics.

Marlborough Artists was founded in 1949 by two enthusiastic painters, Guy Barton, then art master at Marlborough College who became the group’s first chairman, and Jean Latham, the first secretary.

The group held its first exhibition in March 1950 with 119 exhibits ranging in price from £1.10/- (£1.50) to £52.10/- (£52.50). The group’s longest standing member is Patricia Goldsmith, who joined in 1956 and is still painting.

Annie Monk, the group’s historian, said: “The venue for that exhibition was a hall behind the Castle and Ball Hotel and since then venues have included the public library, Marlborough College gymnasium, St Peter’s Church and, currently, the town hall. “Some members paint purely for pleasure, but many are professional artists.

“For example, Andy le Poidevin owned his gallery in Hughenden Yard for 21 years, Catherine Pier has recently completed several commissions for the Oman Royal Estates, and Colin Palmer was commissioned to capture the charm of the High Street in pen and watercolour, resulting in 28 paintings.

“Many members regularly sell their work, tutor art workshops and participate in the Marlborough Open Studio scheme during July.”

The exhibition is on Friday September 18 from 2pm to 8pm, Saturday September 19 from 9am to 6pm and Sunday September 20 from 9am to 4.30pm.

Admission is free.