Local artist has lived in Honiton for over 50 years

Vera Reene (70) has lived in Honiton for over 50 years and this week Nub news is delighted to be able to share some of her paintings and sketches.

She was born in Woodbury and then moved to Honiton when she got married to her husband Brian, who was born in Talaton. They were married in Honiton Registry Office in 1972.

She and Brian have one child who lives in Dunkeswell and another who lives in Brisbane, Australia.

Vera described to Nub News what it was like to live in Honiton back then: "Our first little new build home was in Millers Way. It seemed a big town then as we were born and bred in small villages!

"It was a very friendly community, no BIG stores and everyone seemed to know each other."

Roundball Hill (Credit: Vera Reene)

Vera firmly believes that Honiton is a lovely place to live. "We like the countryside and wildlife, which is on your doorstep here yet it is not too far to big cities.

"It has changed in size but l still feel that community spirit of locals who keep the lovely High street going. l like to support local businesses and looking after neighbours is important too. We have several long-term neighbours we help keep eyes on."

Before she retired, Vera worked a nursery nurse in a residential home and for 28 years she worked in Millwater special needs school on Honiton Bottom Road, which has now closed down.

She is part of Winnie Cameron's Honiton Carers group and she cares for her husband, who is currently unwell with lung cancer. Vera told Nub News: "I joined the Honiton Carers around 8 years ago.

"My husband has lung cancer. He wants to be independent but in winter months his health gets worse each year, needing lots of help from me."

Vera has always enjoyed painting and she has been kind enough to share some of her artwork with Nub News.

The Honiton Carers sessions, which are often creative activities, offer an outlet for her: "Our Care group have had many art/craft social events which l love and great support for each other over the years, even if l can't make them all."

Recently Vera has started making items for her family. "I have always loved anything creative. l started making crafts for my grandchildren, personalised bunting, drawings and so on.

Vera Reene

"I used pen and ink to start with for drawing family and friend's homes, animals. After a while l started doing seascapes, landscapes and trying oils, etc. Recently I've started using technology - using my finger to create ideas on my devices. 

"I find that art is a great way to unwind and relax, and it is so rewarding when they are completed."