ART enthusiasts gathered in Abingdon to celebrate a golden anniversary with a lecture and drinks reception.

The Arts Society, an international education charity, is turning 50 this year and its Abingdon branch is one of 385 local groups.

More than 280 guests attended the event on July 18 at Abingdon School 's Amey Hall to mark the anniversary of the Arts Society's foundation, which originated from the Chiltern Antiques Group created by Patricia Fay in 1965.

Among the guests were the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Abingdon Mayor Margaret Crick and former chairmen of the society.

The reception was held in the Jekyll Gardens at Abingdon School and provided a backdrop to live music provided by internationally renowned harpist, Pervin Shahin, a member of the Abingdon branch.

Her wide-ranging concert covered everything from Baroque to Jazz

This was followed by a talk given by David Phillips, a freelance lecturer specialising in art, its forgery and psychology.

The talk, entitled ‘Who says? Can we trust the experts on good and bad art?’ looked at the very nature of reviewing art.

Angela Payne, a former chairman, said: "Everything was perfect – from the ideal setting, to the drinks an canapes, to Pervin playing her golden harp and David Phillips’ excellent lecture which struck just the right note."

The Arts Society Abingdon host lectures throughout the year at Trinity Church, Conduit Road, Abingdon. For more information about the group and events visit theartssocietyabingdon.org.uk