Budding artists are learning the joy of painting at a new evening class.

The weekly sessions, taken by artists Sara Dyson and Michael Chapman, are one of the growing number of activities taking place in the new Memorial Hall at South Creake.

Miss Dyson, from Watenden, modeled for last week's class, which focussed on Renaissance style portraiture.

Mr Chapman, who lives in the Creakes, said: 'Clearly, a lot of them hadn't done much painting before. A lot of them really enjoy it and get quite addicted.'

Fishmonger Paul White, 57, from Fakenham said he now spent all his spare time painting after joining the class.

'I know Michael,' he said. 'I happened to mention to him that I'd inherited some painting materials, I came along for a trial run and thoroughly enjoyed it.'

Charity shop manageress Helen Gibson, 48, from South Creake, said: 'I used to teach dance and ballet in Italy. I don't do that any more but I've still got a creative side, I want to bring that out I suppose.'

Barbara Robins, 59, from Tattersett, said she had wanted to try painting ever since she was at school but had only recently found time to take it up.

Classes are held in South Creake Memorial Hall on Thursday evenings (6.30pm). Sessions cost £10 for two hours and artists should bring their own materials.