PAINTER John Isitt is about to start work on a portrait of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Mr Isitt, 75, from Jericho Street, Oxford, has been a painter all his life, but Rowan Williams is his most high-profile project to date.

The artist suggested the painting and the Archbishop has now agreed that he can go ahead.

Mr Isitt said: “I am a Welsh speaker, and I wrote to Rowan Williams when he was Archbishop of Wales quite a few years ago to ask if I could paint his portrait.

“Nothing came of it at the time, but I recently contacted Lambeth Palace to see if it would be possible.

“I work from colour transparencies and I was delighted when Lambeth Palace in London sent me some photos to work from.

“Then I got a letter from the Archbishop saying that he was pleased I was working on the project.

“I haven’t started the painting yet, but I hope to finish it in September and if I am pleased with it I shall give it to the Archbishop.”

In his letter to Mr Isitt, the Archbishop wrote: “Many thanks for your letter and for the work on the proposed portrait.

“I’m very touched that you should be undertaking this.”

Mr Isitt added: “I have always thought he would be a good subject to paint, and I am delighted he has taken an interest in my work.”