MARY ‘Queen of Shops’ Portas cast a critical eye over art competition entries at this year’s Painswick Artburst Festival.

The design guru helped to select a winner from over one hundred entries at the launch of the 10-day art festival on Saturday.

The entrants had created pieces on the theme ‘Character of the Cotswolds’.

First prize went to Denius Parson for his wood sculpture, Cotswold Living.

Second prize was awarded to Melanie Gibson for her piece, Yellow Car Arlington Row.

All entries will be displayed in the St Mary’s Church rooms throughout the festival, which continues until Monday, August 26.

A spokesperson for the festival said: “We are expecting over 2500 visitors to the village during the festival which we hope will bring many new customers to our artists and the village. Do support us if you can.”

Artburst Painswick features art exhibitions, workshops and a classic car display.

For more info and the Artburst trail walking route, visit: artburstpainswick.co.uk