Winners of an annual arts exhibition opened by a south Essex MP have been revealed.

Hundreds of art enthusiasts visited Rayleigh Art Groups Annual Exhibition with more than 100 paintings on display.

Organiser and chairman Colin Mossman, with his painting ‘Sunrise at Leigh-on-Sea’, was awarded first place, second went to Lesley Kirkham with her painting ‘Point of Light’, and in third was Elaine Hook with her painting ‘Poppy Meadow’.

The event was opened on Saturday by Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, at the Women's Institute Hall, in Bellingham Lane.

Mr Mossman said: "It was pleasing for all those artists who had worked so hard to mount the exhibition, and for the artists to receive so many complimentary comments.

"All visitors were asked to choose their favourite painting."

Danielle Belton, Rayleigh Town Council chairman, Stuart Belton, vice chairman and councillor Deborah Mercer also attended.

Echo: Organiser Colin Mossman, with Rayleigh town councillor, chairwoman Danielle Belton and vice chairman Stuart BeltonOrganiser Colin Mossman, with Rayleigh town councillor, chairwoman Danielle Belton and vice chairman Stuart Belton (Image: Rayleigh Art Group)Mr Francois said: "We are very fortunate to have several gifted artists operating in the local area and this annual exhibition allows local residents to see for themselves, the valuable work which the group and its members undertake."

The event was sponsored again by A R Adams (funeral directors) Ltd. The Society for all artists (SAA) supplied the prizes for the competition.

Echo: Rayleigh Art Group Exhibition paintingsRayleigh Art Group Exhibition paintings (Image: Rayleigh Art Group)