Grandmother Maeve Chaple says her life turned technicolour when she discovered hidden artistic talents. Four heart attacks, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis have failed to dampen Maeveās zest for life. 
I would say to anyone thinking about going back into learning: just do it.
 | | Outstanding Adult Learner award nominee Maeve Chaple. |
Six years ago, 61-year-old Maeve, from Moreton-in-Marsh, joined the Stow Disability Association, a thriving community organisation based at Adlestrop Village Hall, and it was there she learned to paint. She says: "Suddenly the world became technicolour." Maeve has progressed at an astonishing rate. Her tutor Ann Edwards says: "Her drawing skills are excellent despite the discomfort in her hands from arthritis. "She has embraced her new found skills with such joy and enthusiasm, it is truly inspiring." Maeve says: "I was so active before I was ill, I was determined not to just sit and vegetate. If it hadnāt been for the SDA, it would have been difficult for me, and for many others, to get a life. "I would say to anyone thinking about going back into learning: just do it." She is now the Stow Disability Associationās treasurer and transport manager, organising the organisationās minibus which serves the Cotswold villages. She says: "The art Ann has taught us has been amazing. I used to draw when I was at school but I was no good at painting. "Now my children argue over which of my pictures to have. My granddaughter Charlotte is 10, and she thinks I am so clever ā itās a good feeling." Members of the SDA sell their paintings and quilted cards to raise funds for the association and to keep their mini-bus going. "Itās a lifeline for disabled people," says Maeve. | 
