VISITORS can win one of two original paintings at a city exhibition.

The two-week Breathless — Breathe More Exhibition of Poetry and Art was launched at Script Haven in Worcester High Street last Saturday and it runs until Sunday, June 30.

Organisers Leena Batchelor, owner of Script Haven, and city artist Susan Birth welcomed participating poets, artists and visitors for a “fascinating” evening of art and words.

Susan said: “Everyone was excited to see how the poets and artists had each responded to their individual sub-themes and enjoyed hearing the poetry read aloud.

“The newly-elected Worcestershire Poet Laureate Freddie Barker couldn’t be there but attendees watched Freddie reading her poem on video.”

Anna Frankel represented The Arts Society Worcester which supports the exhibition and is providing gift vouchers for the artist and poet receiving the most public votes during its run.

Anna said “It was a pleasure and a privilege to support local creatives.”

The evening also marked the end of a week of festival for Worcestershire LitFest and Fringe, represented by directors Martin Driscoll and Nina Lewis, former Worcestershire Poet Laureate, and Mark Robbins, chair of Worcestershire LitFest.

Martin said: “We were delighted to partner Script Haven and Susan Birth from Artist Studios at Bevere on the poetry aspect of the Breathless — Breathe More project and happy many of our former Poets Laureate and current, regular performers responded to the theme so well and creatively.

“We attended the launch as part of our week of festival finale and enjoyed reading, listening and admiring the fine artwork by the artists who also responded to the theme.”

Visitors can vote for their favourite artwork and favourite poem.

They will then automatically be entered into a draw at the end of the month with a chance to win one of two original paintings.

They can also enjoy browsing at the independent bookshop and café located near the Elgar statue.