HER Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, visited Farnham’s very own ‘arts for well-being’ charity Creative Response last weekend to kick off the vital service’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

Creative Response was founded in October 1993, and over the past two-and-a-half decades has offered therapy through art to countless vulnerable adults, not only from Farnham but from across Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire.

To mark the beginning of its anniversary year, Mr More-Molyneux visited the charity’s base at Vernon House, above Farnham Library in West Street, meeting with the charity’s managing director Julie Wise and trustee Norman Wren (pictured above).

The Queen’s representative was also able to see an art group in session, where the charity’s professional artists working alongside participants in a safe and nurturing environment.

Discussing the charity’s work, Mrs Wise said: “With support and encouragement, participants find a voice through their creativity, reducing their levels of distress and anxiety.

“Not only does it support them by raising their confidence and self esteem but it gives them coping mechanisms to maintain their wellbeing in society.”

Mr More-Molyneux also visited Creative Response’s current exhibition, NOT GOOD ENOUGH; a solo show of dark art by Jase Daniels, running until October 31 and open to the public from Mondays to Fridays, 10am to 3pm.

Creative Response frequently opens its doors to visitors, with a wealth of exhibitions and workshops throughout the year. Places are currently available on its ‘Illustration’ workshops on October 25 and 26, led by patron, artist Peter Rush.

The charity also has a ‘Friends of Creative Response’ membership, which not only provides a lifeline for the charity but gives the public an opportunity to be closely involved in what the charity does.

With local council spending diminishing, the need for the charity to raise its profile and increase fundraising has never been greater - and it is actively seeking a sponsor for its special 25th anniversary summer exhibition to be held next June.

Volunteer Kerry Kelly added: “It is imperative that we reach out to our community and ensure that we successfully raise greater funds, if we are to be sustainable in the future.”

Visit creativeresponsearts.org or call 01252 716876.