A PAINSTAKING re-creation of High Wycombe’s original chair arch landed a partially sighted pensioner first prize in an art competition.

Colin Shirley spent six months carefully crafting a replica of the arch that was erected to mark Queen Victoria’s visit to the town in 1877.

The 84-year-old’s detailed model won the title of best in show at the Bucks Vision De Fraine Arts and Crafts Show – which is open only to the visually impaired.

Mr Shirley, from Hazlemere, said: “I was very pleased as I finished second last year so it was obviously better to come first this time.

“The arch obviously looks a lot different to me as my eyes are not very good, my central vision has gone completely in both eyes.

“I must have made about 300 chairs as I broke the arch half way through making it so I had to start all over again, but it was worth it.”

The Wycombe branch of Bucks Vision meets every Thursday at the Hazlemere Community Centre in Rose Avenue between 2.30 and 4pm.

The meetings alternate between a social club and arts and crafts.

New members are welcome, call the charity’s base in Aylesbury on 01296 487 556 for more information or visit www.bucksvision.co.uk