A TALENTED veteran is selling prints of his painting to raise money for military charities.

John Mason, president of the Royal British Legion for Powick and Callow End and vice president of The Royal Air Forces Association for Worcester and District, is an active fundraiser for both the Poppy and Wings Appeal.

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However, due to the coronavirus, the annual Poppy and Wings Appeal collections will not take place, which will be a setback to both military charities. In an attempt to fundraise for both, he has painted a picture featuring three local features namely King John, Hindlip Hall and Hartlebury Castle and all of them are steam locomotives ready for service at Old Oak Common in London.

The 86-year-old became a social media sensation after being photographed selling poppies to the motorists stuck in traffic during the floods last year in Powick.

Mr Mason said: “I have been artistic all my life. It’s a great pleasure to me. In the last few years, as I’m getting on a bit, I’m beginning to lose some of the faculties of my eyesight. And so, I slowed down and was minimalising my artwork for the past five years.

“But last year I decided to get some new glasses and it’s made a big difference and enabled me to do what I enjoy doing.”

He added: “When we were told we couldn’t do normal collections this year ,I thought if I paint a picture which might sell, I would be abl e to raise funds if it works out well. I thought I would be able to raise as much money as we would in normal circumstances.”

Mr Mason began painting in February and he will be producing prints titled The Worcester Connection, which is up for sale for £75, where the money will be donated to the RAF Association Battle of Britain Wings Appeal and the Poppy Appeal.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain which took place between July and October 1940. Mr Mason retired in 1999, however still continues to do his charity work in the county.

If you’re interested, email, masonjohn626@gmail.com.