Boost For Artist

Virtually every wall is covered with his beautiful oil paintings and now other parts of the home also have his pictures on display.

And Patrick, 77, can look forward to honing his artist s skills for years to come thanks to a grant from a force s charity.

The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust has awarded him 200 to pay for materials and equipment.

Patrick s talent was first recognised more than 60 years ago when, as a boy of 14, he went to art school in his native Scotland.

But tragedy was to strike a few years later when he was serving in the Second World War on a Royal Navy submarine which was blown up off north Africa. He suffered severe post-traumatic stress disorder and his memory was affected by the experience.

Mohammad and Susan Dookhith, owners of the Yasmine Bayside Comfort Home, in Bayford Road, are proud to have Patrick s pictures on display.

Said Mr Dookhith: "It is his passion and is very good therapy for him. He really has a talent for painting."

Added Mrs Dookhith: "The money from the grant has helped Patrick buy an easel and he buys paints and brushes with the money that is still left."

For the full story, see the Gazette, January 3.