A GWENDRAETH Valley woman has overcome a disability to win an award for her painting skills.

Ann Roblin of Pontyberem has a disability that affects her hands badly, but she hasn’t let it ruin her love of art.

She has been attending art courses through Carmarthenshire County Council’s community education department for the last four years, and has progressed from absolute beginners to advanced in that time.

Ann’s achievements have now been recognised and she has won a Learner of the Year award.

Community education officer Lynda Lumb, who nominated Ann, said: “The standard of Ann’s work is excellent, but what makes is exceptional is that she has a disability that affects her hands very badly and yet she still paints with enthusiasm and flair.

“Not only has Ann overcome her disability to achieve personally, but she also brings a sparkle to the class.

“She has a sunny disposition, is always cheerful, and despite several illnesses and operations, her attendance record is very good.

“She is unfailingly supportive of the other learners in her group, going out of her way to help.

“I feel Ann deserves recognition because she has overcome enormous odds in order to achieve, and yet would be the sort of person to say ‘I haven’t done anything special’.”

Ann said: “I owe my success to my tutor Peter Lumb, I have loved every minute at my art class and have met lifelong friends.”

Dozens of community education courses are available at venues across the county, ranging from the traditional such as computing and languages, to crafts, exercise, and the more unusual such as solar and wind power course, playing in a rock band, Indian head massage, calligraphy and meditation.

Information is available on www.carmarthenshire. gov.uk or from Lynda Lumb on 01267 235413.