A GROUP of people living with mental illness in Chard and Ilminster are having their artwork displayed at an exhibition in Taunton this month.

The event is being held at Taunton library and aims to raise awareness of mental health issues.

The showcase is being run by the charity Rethink and displays paintings, sculptures and craft work, together with information related to mental health.

One of the exhibitors, who is a long-term sufferer of mental illness, said: “Painting is where I go when I feel stressed.

“It calms me down and gives me a focus and a direction – for a few hours I can get some rest from the things that worry me.”

The opening of the exhibition was attended by Taunton Deane MP Jeremy Browne and Deputy Mayor Marcia Hill.

Mr Browne said: “Mental illness can have a devastating impact on the lives of victims and their families.

“I hope the increased prominence given to mental health will improve the situation for sufferers.”