A HOST of events at a museum of equestrian artwork by a renowned English painter are taking place throughout the next few months.

The Munnings Museum, in Dedham, which showcases the iconic work of Sir Alfred Munnings, is holding an outdoor painting competition on Saturday, August 17, between 10am and 3pm.

Following a host of painting workshops and masterclasses being run throughout the summer, painters of all abilities will demonstrate their skills in the competition.

On Wednesday, August 21, storyteller Richard O’Neill will be sharing contemporary and traditional tales about Munnings himself.

Another outdoor painting competition is taking place on September 13 and 14.

A spokesman for the museum said: “The museum’s popular plein air painting competition returns for its third successive year and invites painters of all abilities to participate.

“Inspired by Sir Alfred’s deep and abiding love of Dedham and its surrounding vale – which also famously inspired John Constable – can you create your own masterpiece that captures the beauty and idyll of this charming corner of north Essex?”

On October 8, Lucinda Hawksley, the great-great-great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens will be holding a fascinating lecture.

Munnings was inspired to take up drawing by the books he read as a boy, with a particular favourite author of his being Charles Dickens.

The spokesman added: “We will explore this relationship and hear a wealth of fascinating insights about Dickens and his circle from none other than his great-great-great granddaughter, author Lucinda Hawksley.”

It is being held in the historic Dedham Assembly Rooms.

For more details on the events, visit munningsmuseum.org.uk.