THE art best appreciated by pub-goers is that of pulling a good pint.

However, regulars at the Bay Horse Inn have also come to admire another formidable skill developed by landlady Sue Wass.

For the former stable groom is also a self-taught artist who is receiving requests for her pastel pet portraits, many of which adorn the pub walls.

“I have always done a bit of drawing and calligraphy, and thought I would have a go at this,” said the 56- year-old.

“I love dogs and I love horses. If you love these animals, you enjoy drawing them.”

She tries to keep Thursdays clear for her art – but insists the pub, in the village of Ravensworth, North Yorkshire, comes first.

Her latest commission is to draw eight race horses, which particularly appeals to the woman who for fiveand- a-half years was stable groom to Crisp, beaten into second place in the 1973 Grand National by Red Rum.

A pet study normally takes one month to complete and Miss Wass always likes to meet and to get to know the pet sitting for her.

“I only do it on a Thursday, but if we are busy in the pub, I can’t do it at all. I could do with more time.

“The pub is my life and I can only draw when I have got time or can make time.

“I try to get Thursdays off – Thursdays are Sue’s drawing day. I have been lucky that I have always done something I liked. It is the love of doing something you enjoy.

“It makes life much better if you are doing something you enjoy, and I really enjoy Thursdays.’’