Local resident and internationally renowned composer, songwriter and raconteur Rick Wakeman has voiced his backing for September’s Waveney Springs Art Trail 2010: The Closer You Get Diss Appears:

Former Diss Grammar School pupil, Val Clarke, looked over his shoulder as he wrote a quote of support:
“I whole heartedly support the Waveney Springs art trail and the local shops collaborating with local artists. It’s a fact that as I get closer, Diss appears. Art – purely life. No art, no life!”

Known for following his creative ideals over commercial concern, “Art – purely life. No art, no life”, was perfectly poignant and to the point sentiment.

Rick had just performed at St. Mary’s Church in Bury St. Edmunds last Friday 30 July. Having played piano between relaying hilarious stories and anecdotes for two hours or more. He then reappeared to meet and greet about 100 members of the audience individually. He’s known for his appearances on the TV programme Grumpy Old Men, however, according to Val, “He must have left the grumpy side at home, because he was completely patient, polite and charming. A special man and a special talent.”

Rick joins South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon and art critic Brian Sewell in support for the Waveney Springs Art Trail which will run throughout September in and around the only town in the UK whereby as you approach, it Diss appears and when you leave, it Diss appears.

MP Mr. Bacon, who plans to walk part of the trail in September to highlight the month-long event, says: “The Waveney Springs Art Trail 2010 is an excellent collaboration between local shops and artists which will help increase awareness of art in everyday life. I congratulate the members of the Waveney Springs Art Collective for bringing this exciting event to Diss and the Waveney Valley.”

Ned Pamphilon, Waveney Springs 2010 PR representative
www.waveneysprings.co.uk