FINDING the best possible candidate for an arts officer should be the district council's priority in its new arts strategy.

That was one of the main conclusions reached at a public meeting organised by Malvern Hills District Council this week.

The meeting was called to give local people a say about the council's draft plan for the arts.

About 20 people interested in the arts braved the wet and cold to come to Priory Lodge Hall on Tuesday evening for the meeting. They were given a brief introduction to the draft plan before making their comments.

One of the first steps in the plan is the appointment of an arts development officer, a first for MHDC.

"A lot really rests on whoever is appointed having the personality, ability and budget to do the job," said Sally Fallon, of the University of the Third Age.

Peter Smith, of Autumn in Malvern, said: "The number one qualification for the job has to be a proven track record of getting arts council funding."

Chris Bassett, of Malvern Theatre Players, said Malvern needed a "cultural hook" along the lines of Ledbury's poetry festival or Hay's literary festival.

Ernie Kay of Malvern Concert Club criticised the jargon of the draft plan, saying it was "very, very hard work".

Also at the meeting were William Boughton, of the English Symphony Orchestra, Robert Wilson, of MADCAP, and Bill Nichols, of the Cowleigh Gallery.

The draft arts plan is available for inspection on the council's website at www.malvernhills.gov .uk/whats_new. Comments should be made by next Friday (October 22).

Amanda Smith, of the district council, said the arts officer's post would probably be advertised next month, with an appointment to be made early next year.