Living in a picturesque thatched cottage has provided the perfect inspiration for an Oxfordshire artist.

Jackie Roberts, and her husband. Tony, have lived in Manor Cottage, Horton-cum-Studley for the last ten years.

Mrs Roberts, pictured above, said: “We have loved it here and feel very much part of the local community, but we have decided it is time to move back to Worcestershire.

“I shall miss sitting in my studio, with its lovely views of the garden and the Chiltern Hills in the distance.”

Her studio is in a detached thatched building which also houses the garage. However, there is potential to connect the building to the main house, which would provide greater flexibility for any future owners, perhaps creating an additional sitting room or a home office.

The Grade II listed property was originally two farm workers’ cottages dating from the 16th or 17th century.

Inside, the cottage is full of character with exposed timbers and brickwork, plastered, wattle-and-daub walls and two inglenook fireplaces.

it has four bedrooms, bathroom, sitting room, dining room and kitchen/breakfast room with French doors leading into the garden.

Before the Roberts moved in, an extension was added to the west side of the house to form an entrance hall, shower room and utility room Huw Warren of selling agents Savills said: ”The cottage is a truly delightful period property in a historic villages.”

Manor Cottage is on the market through Savills (01865 339700) at a guide price of £560,000.