Dromara artclasses saved from closure

The popular class, which is held in the local community centre each Tuesday, is operated by the South Eastern Regional College.

The College recently announced the class would close. However, following a campaign by the dedicated students and local politicians the class was saved and will return again in the new term in September.

The two classes, which this year included approximately thirty six students of all ages and stages, provide the opportunity to learn and develop skills in a range of mediums including watercolour, acrylics and pastels within a supportive environment taught by local artist Ernie Jones, who is well known in his own right.

Students were horrified to learn that classes were to be discontinued and sought support from their local political representatives to put forward a case for maintaining the classes. The public representatives took up the challenge and arranged face to face discussions with college representatives and students. As a result of this it has been possible to reach a partnership arrangement whereby the college will continue to offer the classes and the group themselves will provide the premises. This is another example of the strength of community spirit within Dromara and its surrounding area and it is great to see local communities and education working together in this way.

Lagan Valley DUP team has welcomed the news that the South Eastern Regional College has reinstated the class for Dromara Painting for pleasure class in September 2011.

Local MLAs Edwin Poots and Paul Givan were joined by local Councillor Paul Stewart in calling for the class to be reinstated after the College made a decision in May of this year to end the class last June.

The three politicians were appalled that local residents would have to travel to Downpatrick for the class, which some of the participants do not have the transport and therefore for could not travel to partake in the new proposed class at Downpartick.

The politicians met with the Principle of the College Mr Ken Webb and members of the class to discuss their concerns and after the successful meeting they said they were “pleased that common since prevailed and that they have reinstated the class for next year.”

The classes, which run from 10.00am to 12.30pm or 7.00pm to 9.30pm will re-commence on Tuesday September 13, 2011 and new students will be most welcome. Registration is through the usual process at SERC.

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