THE Yorkley Community Centre was transformed into an art gallery over the weekend to celebrate its first birthday.

The community hub hosted the New Green Hut Art Show which attracted people from across the Forest and featured the artistic creations of more than 45 residents in Yorkley, Pillowell, Oldcroft and Viney Hill.

As well as paintings and drawings there were textiles, sculptures and jewellery. Children were also invited to paint on a large drawing board.

Chair of the centre, Sharon Freeman said: “The celebrations were absolutely fantastic.

“Most of the visitors were stunned by the quality of the art, textiles and crafts commenting that the Forest now has a first class gallery. Well done to all concerned.”

Meanwhile the smaller meeting room was turned into a cinema showing short films including some excellent work by the children of Pillowell and Blakeney schools.

There were also craft demonstrations, entertainment from Pillowell Training Band and poetry.

The community hub boasts 11 regular and well-attended groups, bookings for conferences, parties, concerts, fund­raising events and much more. 

Sharon Freeman added: “We have come a long way in the year since we opened. It’s been a very busy year but it’s rewarding to see it being so well used and appreciated.”