Sunday saw blue skies and sunshine adorn the village of Compton as the home of George Frederick Watts opened its doors to the public and displayed works of art old and new.

The day, which was launched by actress Penelope Keith, saw visitors flocking to the area to enjoy art in many mediums from paintings to pottery.

One company that has long associations with Watts Gallery is Grayshott Pottery. The pottery displayed some of its latest 'Compton Style' inspired 'one off' pottery pieces but also encouraged visitors to try their hand at 'throwing a pot'.

Phil Bates Chairman and Trustee of Grayshott Pottery said, "We had a great afternoon. It is amazing how many people really fancy giving pot throwing a go. But I have got to say it is not as easy as our artists make it look!"

For further information about Grayshott Pottery and for times of its workshop tours telephone 01428 604404 or visit www.grayshottpottery.com

Grayshott Pottery is employee owned and is run under an 'Employee Benefit Trust' arrangement that was brought into operation within the last 12 months. In April 2007 Grayshott Pottery won 'Most Proactive Business in the Community 2007' Haslemere & District Chamber of Trade.

Compton Pottery (now closed) that was started by Mary Watts the wife of GF Watts had thrived in its heyday and the workshops were well known for making large red clay garden items and the finer beautifully decorated bowls, plates and jugs in 'coloured ware' inspired by Celtic and Art Nouveau design. After starting the business in 1900, following the success of Mrs Watts' evening classes run from her home, the business began in earnest by taking on staff and by exhibiting designs at prestigious botanical locations such as the Chelsea Flower Show and the Royal Botanical Gardens. This resulted in commissions from many famous people such as Sir Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll. Further designs were sold through Lliberty & Co in London.

It is the finer 'colour-ware' that Grayshott Pottery is now celebrating by commissioning artists to create hand painted 'one off' collectable designs in the Compton style and these items are now available both at Watts Gallery in Compton and also at Grayshott Pottery, who hold an ever changing collection.

One of Grayshott Pottery's connections with the Watts family was through Puttenham born, Roy Saywell who worked with Mary Watts. Roy was 14 when he started his apprenticeship and worked for the Potters' Art Guild / Compton Pottery for thirty one years. After a brief spell managing the Kingswood Pottery in Brook, he then worked for Grayshott Pottery until he retired in his 80s, continuing to hand-throw many items including 'puzzle jugs' which were popular amusement articles.

Photos taken by Janet McWillliam

Submitted by Janet McWilliam 07887 653444