JAYWICK'S historic Martello Tower celebrates the work of local artists as it launches its Coastal Open exhibition for the eighth year.

The show is part of the countywide Summer of Art Festival – one of the largest visual arts fests in the UK, with more than 26 art trails and open studios across Essex.

A variety of work from 30 artists includes ceramics, photography, textiles, painting and creative writing.

Almost 11,000 people have visited the Coastal Open since it was launched seven years ago.

There is the chance to talk to artists on Sundays from 11am to 2pm, and a host of other events during September and October including:

• Digital drawing with an iPad, led by artist Lata Upadhyaya.

• Postcard-making sessions.

• Black Sandal Writers poetry reading.

The Coastal Open runs from today until October 29.