AS Hereford prepares to host the 300th birthday of the world’s oldest music festival, the Friends of Hereford Three Choirs are busy mounting their popular art exhibition which has become an integral part of the festival week.

Thirty years ago, four local artists showed their work in the Shire Hall during the festival and over the years interest has increased and the exhibition has grown. This year’s will be the biggest yet, featuring 33 artists, both amateur and professional, in the Cathedral School’s spacious sports hall. As well as adding to the celebratory ambience of the week, the aim is to contribute to the Friends’ fundraising efforts in supporting the festival as a whole. Twenty per cent of all sales will go to the fund.

The exhibition will be formally opened by Sir Roy Strong at 10.15. am on Saturday, July 25. The exhibition runs until Friday, July 31, open day from 10am to 6pm. Entry is free.