A NEW artist in residence has created more than a storm in a teacup at the Worcester Porcelain Museum.

Sara Hayward has been appointed to the post at the museum in Severn Street, Worcester, thanks to funding from the Lever-hulme Trust. She is the first artist to hold the position since Dale Devereux Barker in 2002.

Ms Hayward, a painter, printmaker and lecturer in art and design at Worcester College of Technology and the University of Worcester, was at the museum for the launch on Tuesday.

Ms Hayward, aged 43, of Battenhall Avenue, Wor-cester, will be working from her studio in the museum galleries on Mondays and Tuesdays for the next 10 months.

There she will have full access to all the collections, archives, photographic records, pattern books, paintings and porcelain to inspire a series of works for an exhibition next spring.

Amanda Savage, museum manager, said: "All too often, people are afraid they might damage or break porcelain and for that reason keep their distance. Ms Hayward's presence in the galleries will create a lively environment and open minds to the wealth of ways in which museum collections can be enjoyed."

Ms Hayward said: "I will be visible within the workforce and my presence will alter the dynamics of the museum.

The museum is open Monday to Saturday between 10am and 5.30pm and Sundays between 11am and 5pm. For details go to www.worcester porcelainmuseum.org