FACE-PAINTERS flocked to Chipping Sodbury from all over the South West to swap ideas and practice on any willing youngsters.

Around 11 artists joined forces on Saturday at the town hall to bring colour to a very dull and grey winter's day.

The get-together was organised by Yate-based company Face Painting Designs. Owner Katherine Monday said the cold weather had obviously put some parents and children off but the face-painters themselves still had a good time.

She added: "They enjoyed themselves swapping ideas and having a chat. It was good fun and we raised some money for the tsunami appeal."

The firm holds several similar days throughout the year and expects to organise another one for the autumn.