Thornbury Art Club has announced the winner of their favourite painting poll.

The competition ran whilst members of the club had their artwork on display during a recent exhibition at Thornbury's Methodist Church Hall.

Visitors to the exhibition were encouraged to vote for their favourite piece.

Mary Drown was the clear winner with 59 votes for her painting The Watering Place (number 15).

She said she was in 'complete amazement' at having won.

"There are some quite beautiful works I think we have a very high standard," said Mary

The acrylic painting, showing a horse drinking from a stream, was based on a photograph Mary's husband Charles took whilst they were on holiday in Turkey.

Mary spent six months working on the painting as part of the club's Tuesdays afternoon studio group.

"I enjoy it because u can sit quietly and just paint.

"Acrylic paint can be quite difficult to use as it dries quickly but I have got used to it now," she added.

As a prize Mary will receive art vouchers to buy materials for her next painting.

Second place went to Heather Morgan for Beauly Walk (number 80) and Wendy Titterton's On the Beach (number 130) finished third.

Tricia Latham, formerly chairwoman of Thornbury Art Club for more than 20 years, said: "The club would like to thank all those who voted for their favourite painting. We realise it is not an easy matter when you have 142 to choose from!"