Precinct centres proves art and craft really are for ALL

Since 1996, The Precinct Centre in St Marychurch has been a community hub offering a range of art and craft sessions to satisfy the creative spirits of its 300 members, many of whom are octogenarians.
The Centre is currently planning to hold a Festival of Art and Craft for a week in August and, at its seven art and craft weekly sessions, members are beavering away to produce art and craft exhibits for displaying to the public.
Brian Ingram, 89, is typical of the older artist whose passion is painting local landmarks on canvas and finds that weekly art sessions can help to reduce stress and combat loneliness, making life more worthwhile.
The Festival is expected to display over 100 artworks, together with displays of quilting, knitwear, crochet, textile crafts and writing skills.
The Centre’s Chairman, Arthur Christian, said: ”We believe the Arts play a valuable role in promoting good health and boosting confidence, making us feel more engaged and resilient. We invite the public to join us for a celebration of creativity, entry is free.”
The Festival runs from Monday, August 7 until Sunday, August 13 from 10am to 4pm daily at The Centre in Church Road, St Marychurch.
There is always something going on at The Precinct Centre, with activities including a Watercolours Group, Writers Group, Knitting, Bingo, Craft, Games, Singing for Health and Movie afternoons. The kitchen also serves some delicious snacks and hot drinks.
While visiting The Precinct Centre, it is a great opportunity to explore the delights of St Marychurch, with the two historic churches sitting next door to each other and the Precinct has retained all its charm over the many decades.
There are numerous independently-owned shops and boutiques in St Marychurch, ranging from a delicious bakery, butchers and fishmongers to pet stores, clock repairers and salons.
After a stop in one of the many St Marychurch cafes, we recommend a Naturally Inspiring stroll down the road to take in the wonderful views of Babbacombe Downs, from where you can access the iconic beaches of Oddicombe and Babbacombe.