QUITE the coup has been achieved by figureheads at Trowbridge Town Hall Arts as the some of the best contemporary watercolour paintings are on display there.

The Trowbridge venue is one of three locations, including the Mall gallery in London and Guildford House, that has been chosen to host The Sunday Times Watercolour Competition, the largest and most prestigious prize for contemporary watercolour painting in the UK.

More than 70 abstract, figurative, contemporary and traditional pieces are currently lining the walls of the town hall, giving locals a chance to gaze upon the impressive works until December 27.

"We are really fortunate to have these wonderfully impressive paintings in our town hall. It shows that we are becoming an appealing and sought after venue," said Tracey Sullivan, Trowbridge Arts director.

"It took a good week to set it all up, carefully putting everything into place and making it safe and secure.

"We have worked with Parker Harris before, who co-ordinate all of this, so it is great to work with them again. There has been a steady flow of people coming in since we opened the exhibition on November 11.

"Hopefully this can encourage local people to enter their own works in competitions as you could one day be involved in this too."

The exhibition will head to London for an extended time after Christmas.