MORE than 500 works of art will be on display at the Arts and Crafts exhibition that forms an eagerly awaited part of the Church Stretton and South Shropshire Arts festival.

Festival chairman John Woolmer said the event, which is the 37th in the series, "offers a fabulous opportunity to enjoy a fine exhibition of so many art works in a wide range of media and subject matter."

Sir Neil Cossons, the Festival President, officially opens the exhibition at St Laurence CE Primary School in Shrewsbury Road on July 21 at 7.30pm. Entrance to the opening night is £1.50 but includes a drink and a catalogue.

From then until August 1, the exhibition is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Entrance is 50p and the catalogue is also 50p. Children can come in free.

During the exhibition, there will be a chance for visitors to see several local artists at work in their own homes. Full details will be available at the School.

Brochures about the Festival itself can be found in local Tourist Information Centres or on the www.strettonfestival.org.uk website.