'ALLO 'Allo and Pirates of the Caribbean star, Guy Siner, raised the hairs on people's arms and a few chuckles besides with a moving speech about the importance of the arts at the launch of the Chiltern Arts Forum.

And if last weekend's forum launch is a hint of things to come artists in the Chilterns look on track for marvellous things.

About 160 artists drawn from all disciplines poured into the library and function rooms of the decadent Latimer House, nestled in the hills overlooking Latimer in Chesham, for Sunday's exciting launch.

Roger Clay, one of the forum organisers, praised the impressive exhibitions set up by forum artists, adding: "People were genuinely excited. It was amazing to see it. We had more than 160 people there I didn't realise we would have so many people. And all the displays were very rich."

Star guest Guy Siner, who recently got engaged to a Chesham-based actress, spoke from the heart about a moment he will never forget as his testimony to the power of art.

He told how, having wandered away from a pal during a visit to a New York gallery, a friend eventually found him, with tears streaming down his face. That's what all of this is for, he said.

A welcome surprise visitor was actor and director Stan Pretty, currently up to his neck in the massively ambitious Amersham Martyrs play.

Roger says: "I thought he wouldn't have time so for him to turn up was delightful. He is so in favour of it and wants to see the arts do well locally."

Twelve-year-old Simon Stephenson, the youngest member of Chesham's Tudor Folk centre, showed off his impressive finger-picking talents, while two Egyptian belly dancers from the Tina-Louise school worked through their routine.

"The contrast between the belly dancers and the guitarist was stunning," said Roger.

It's full steam ahead now for the forum, which is on the lookout for donations and sponsorship.

Roger said: "It doesn't have to be long term sponsorship but like Latimer House, maybe offer us a venue for an event."

The forum is the first venture of its kind in the Chilterns that brings everyone involved in creative activities, from blacksmiths to puppeteers, together.

Visit info@chilternartsforum.co.uk or contact Roger on 01494 772944.