THE Swan Playwrights said farewell to the group's founder on Friday.

Jenny Stephens, the theatre's artistic director, set up The Swan Playwrights seven years ago and, since then, the group has provided local writers with a chance to have their work staged professionally.

With direction from Ms Stephens and associate director Kim Greengrass, the group has produced work including The Century Plays, Victorian Voices and Lance Woodman's award-winning Red Skies over the Severn.

Chairmen of The Swan Playwrights, Martin Drury and Tom Bryson, presented both directors with flowers and presents on Friday, their last day at the theatre.

Mr Bryson thanked the pair for their hard work and "occasional kick up the bottom" over the years and looked forward to working with them again.

"Some people say this is the end of the road, but I see it as a fork in the road," said Mr Bryson. "We will continue."

"I hope that we have touched people's lives with our work on stage and our community and education work," said Ms Stephens.

"I, for one, have learnt such a lot from being here."