KELMSCOTT Manor is looking to employ an artist in residence for the first time, to keep alive the spirit of William Morris.

Managers of the historic house, west of Faringdon, want to boost its profile with a competition to become the new artist or “craft-maker” in residence.

The successful applicant will a “talented” artist who can recreate the spirit of the man dubbed the father of the 19th Century Arts and Crafts movement.

John Lewis, general secretary of the London Society of Antiquaries which runs Kelmscott, said: “We want to show how Kelmscott influenced Morris and how Morris influences us today and what better way to demonstrate this than having an artist in residence to bring us closer to the past.”

It is also hoped the new position will build on the success of the tourist attraction after it won the award for Best Small Visitor Attraction last year from Cotswold Tourism.

The artist in residence position will run from April to October.

Kelmscott property manager Sarah Parker said: “It will provide visitors with compelling experiences, including targeted groups, and a range of creative and cultural opportunities to encourage people to engage further with the Manor and celebrate Morris’s important legacy.”

The deadline for applications is February 24. For enquires, contact Sarah Parker on 01367 253348 or email sarahparker@kelmscottmanor.org.uk