BEER Sailing Club’s anonymous art exhibition raised more than �2,000 toward its club house revamp.

Club member Geoff Pook asked artists to anonymously contribute CD-sized paintings, which were then identically mounted in a CD box and sold for �25 each. A total of 161 paintings were given by 59 artists, 137 of which were sold during the exhibition at the Bomb Shelter, in June.

The paintings raised �2,239.25, including sales made after the event, .

Geoff said: “It was a novel way of doing it and worked on so many levels. We had a fantastic response.”

He thanked all the artists for their support and added: “We would also like to thank all visitors to the exhibition, especially those who purchased paintings and hope they are enjoying them. For those who found out they bought a painting by a well-known artist, congratulations on their bargain.”

The second stage of the club house fundraising will be an auction of eight paintings by artists including Eddie Burrows, Bob Bradshaw and Julia King-East at the club’s end of Regatta barbecue on Saturday, August 14. The auction will start around 7.30pm, officiated by auctioneer and estate agent Martin Diplock.

Geoff said: “All are welcome and if they don’t buy a painting, at least they can enjoy the view the new club house will offer next year.”

During the exhibition, a number of artists remarked on the format and the possibility of using a similar format for their club or art society. If anyone would like CD boxes or the mounting boards for a similar exhibition call Geoff on 07966 490429.