THE Dartmoor Decorative and Fine Arts Society has announced its series of autumn lectures.

The first is on Wednesday, October 9. Linda Smith will be examining the sculptor Jacob Epstein and his life and work in order to explain what he was trying to achieve and why he caused such controversy in his time.

On Wednesday, November 13, Elizabeth Rumbelow will explore the lives and works of three pivotal figures of the Romantic movement, composer Frederic Chopin, artist Eugene Delacroix and novelist George Sand.

On Wednesday, December 4, Helen McCabe will talk about Gertrude Jekyll and her ideas and influences on 20th century gardens.

All lectures take place in the Charter Hall with coffee from 10am and the talks starting at 10.30am prompt. Everyone is welcome, and for non-members a voluntary donation of £10 per talk is requested.

The group has also organised an antiques valuation and furniture study workshop for antique enthusiasts at Okehampton Rugby Club on Wednesday, October 23.

In the morning, Christopher Chanter will give a demonstration on cleaning and polishing antiques followed by a valuation of pieces brought in by visitors after lunch.

The event begins at 10am with registration and coffee. The lectures start at 10.30am, costing £28 for DDFAS and £30 for non members.

An application form to become a DDFAS member can be downloaded from http://www.dartmoor-dfas.org.uk">www.dartmoor-dfas.org.uk or by e-mailling membership secretary Alex Crosthwaite-Eyre at [email protected]">[email protected]

For further information contact Sara-Jane Cumming either by e-mail on [email protected]">[email protected] or by calling 01822 860281.