The Chilterns MS Centre’s Pop-Up Art Weekend raised a staggering £17,000 to support people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS).

The Wendover-based charity hosted its annual art exhibition over the weekend of March 7 and 8 and showcased a huge range of art from more than 90 artists.

Visitors were treated to classic watercolours, stunning acrylics, colourful prints, gorgeous jewellery - and even a horse’s head.

The centre’s own Angell Art Group also exhibited and sold their work. The group plays an important role at the centre, giving members a fun social setting to try something new, have fun and make new friends.

Sandra, part of the Angell Art Group, said: “If I didn’t have MS I would never have joined [the art] group and that would be rubbish. It’s wonderful and amazing. I can’t describe what art has done for our group and how it invigorates us all. We really have a good time. It gives us freedom and shows us how to do things that we would never have thought of. I am so grateful to the MS Centre and we would be absolutely lost without it.”

A steady stream of people came to the centre over two days to enjoy the widest variety of art that there has ever been at the show. Afterwards visitors relaxed with one of the many delicious homemade cakes that were donated, which helped to boost proceeds further.

Tricia Glaves, exhibition visitor, said: “This was a great event with a real range of talented work. I’m already looking forward to next year.”

Over the years more than £132,000 has been raised in total to help the centre to provide physical, practical and emotional support to people with MS and their families.

The services are free to those affected by MS and so events like the art weekend provide the vital funds the centre needs to keep supporting the MS community in the Chilterns and the surrounding counties.

Hannah Prentice, community and events fundraiser said “We’re delighted that so many people came to support us, especially in light of the current situation.

"It’s been a record-breaking year for the exhibition and we rely so much on the generosity of others to be able to run our services.

"We thank all of the artists who took part in the exhibition for making this such an excellent show.

"We also want to thank all of our sponsors, including Michael Anthony Estate Agents, for their invaluable support again this year. “

The dates for next years' exhibition are March 6 and 7, 2021.

To find out more about the work the Chilterns MS Centre does for people affected by MS, visit chilternsmscentre.org.