ART created by a Tavistock stroke survivor was on display at an exhibition in the Bedford Hotel last Wednesday. The Stroke Association mounted an art exhibition and presentation in honour of Barry Highfield. Barry suffered a stroke in 2001 and the immediate effects included communication problems, limited mobility, right-side paralysis and psychological effects. After a four-month stay in hospital, Barry?s rehabilitation has been a slow process ? even six years later he still has speech problems, but his art work has helped him to express himself and reduce frustration. At the exhibition, Barry was presented with a certificate by the Duchess of Bedford, as he was shortlisted for the Susie Hulks memorial award for art at the charity?s annual life after stroke awards. Barry was nominated by Fleur Howard, co-ordinator of the Stroke Association?s communication support group and herself a stroke survivor. She said: ?Barry was extremely depressed after his stroke, a common effect. Then a nurse on the stroke ward encouraged him to pick up a pen and experiment. ?Now he creates art with a variety of media, including pencil, crayon, pastels, watercolour and oils. ?Discovering this unknown talent has helped Barry?s recovery massively and through his art he also helps other members of our group.? The association?s dysphasia group is being organised by Fleur at the Anchorage Centre in Tavistock. The purpose of the stroke group is to provide support for people who have difficulties with communication as well as physical problems. If anyone would like more information contact Fleur on 07717 275759. Pictured below are Vernon Barrett, another stroke survivor, who also exhibited some of his art work, Fleur Howard, Barry Highfield, deputy mayor Robin Pike and his wife Diana, and Alan Bartle, regional manager of the Stroke Association.