AN artist with a clear understanding and appreciation of her subject is Helen Allin, whose portraits caught the eye in the craft exhibition tent.

Helen, who lives at Mary Tavy, has had her works accepted for the Society of Equestrian Artists' exhibitions at Christie's, the Mall Galleries in London, Palace House Newmarket and exhibits annually at Badminton Horse Trials; the Cotswold Show, the Royal Festival of the Horse, Stoneleigh and the Gatsombe Horse Trials.

She said: 'I make detailed notes of colour, markings, traits and conformation so that lifelike portraits capture the personality and the characteristics of the breed.'

Helen, who has close connections with West Devon having lived previously at Dalton, Princetown, Winkleigh, will also be exhibiting today (Thursday) at the Chagford Show.

She added: 'Although I exhibit at top equine events such as Badminton and Gatscombe I have a number of customers here in West Devon and happy to 'fly the flag' at the Okehampton Show.'