THE UNVEILING of a water colour painting to honour Evesham’s Dumbleton Village Hall has been cancelled due to unforeseen illness.
A long-standing Dumbleton resident and self-taught artist, Derek Lyes, has created the painting to commemorate the Victorian building’s 125 year anniversary. It was going to be unveiled on Saturday, April 13 at 11am.
Organisers have announced the event has been postponed and will be rescheduled for later in the year.
For over a century, Dumbleton Village Hall has been the cornerstone of community life, hosting a huge variety of events and gatherings that have cemented its place at the heart of the community.
Derek was born in Dumbleton in 1935 and has lived in the village ever since, with a pause to serve in the Royal Navy.
His time in the Navy left him profoundly hard of hearing but this hasn’t stopped him from being a big part of village life since his return.
Seen every day in the village taking his regular walk up and around Dumbleton hill where he regularly outpaces younger and fitter walkers.
Derek said: “The Village Hall has been part of my life forever. I’ve enjoyed so many great events including dances, drinks, dinners and more, here. Since the death of my dear wife, I live alone and the Pop-Up Cafés give me the chance to catch up with friends, make new friends and talk about the history and changes I’ve seen”. He said “I was so pleased to be asked to create a picture or the Hall for its 125th anniversary but I’ve been nervous too! It’s an important part of the celebrations and as a self-taught artist, I always worry about if it’s good enough”.
The Hall committee says Derek doesn’t need to worry.
“Derek’s portrait beautifully captures the essence of the Hall,” said Jim Harmsworth Cowles, chair of the Village Hall.
“He is such a talented artist, it’s hard to believe he only started painting a few years ago. His picture is a fitting tribute to the enduring connection between the village and the Hall and we knew there was no one better than Derek to do it. Everyone in the village knows and loves him and we’re deeply honoured that he has produced this wonderful piece to celebrate our 125th anniversary.”
