A Brentwood church has devised an artful way to bring to life a mammoth cash appeal for an exciting project.

A painting of picturesque St Peter's Church in South Weald by artist and worshipper George Hogg is to be auctioned to launch the £200,000 campaign for an extension to the vestry meeting room and a refurbishment of the church.

Professional artist George Hogg has won several awards and his paintings of landscapes, wildlife and portraits sell for several thousand.

The painting of St Peter's will be auctioned at a cheese and wine evening in the Weald Road church on Saturday (March 1).

In addition to the original, a limited edition of 325 prints will be on sale priced at £75 each. The first five numbered prints will be framed and auctioned individually.

Mr Hogg, who lives in Noak Hill with his wife, Maryanne, said: "We have been coming to St Peter's for about five years. It is a special place and my daughter was married there.

"It's a lovely church and although I have done sketches of the church before, this was my first serious painting. It shows the complete church and part of the road."

The vicar, the Rev Ian Jorysz said: "To have a professional artist of such standing in the congregation is unusual and we are delighted he offered to produce a painting of the church for the appeal."

Anyone who would like to attend the auction, buy a limited edition print or make a donation should call appeal treasurer Michael Collinson on 01277 375047.

Published Monday, February 24, 2003

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