A NEW face has been welcomed at the Sleaford- based National Centre for Craft and Design.

Jeremy Webster has joined the centre as head of exhibitions.

He has a wealth of knowledge in the craft and design arena having previously worked at both The Collection and Usher Gallery in Lincoln, and prior to that as the City of Lincoln Council's public art officer.

He has also spent time working at the Art House and Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Mr Webster is married with two children who are both still in education.

He enjoys art in all its forms and believes in its importance to a civilised society.

He said: "I have worked with artists my entire working career and consider it a privilege to have done so – from amateur artists to household names such as Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry.

"I believe there is a huge range of great craft and design out there just waiting to be shown.

"I admire the ambition of The National Centre for Craft and Design and am eager to live up to that status.

"I was present at the opening of 'the Hub' and am now excited to be involved in planning for the centre's tenth anniversary.

"The centre has a great future ahead of it, and some truly wonderful exhibitions which will excite, astound and truly amaze you."

Mr Webster strongly believes everyone should be able to access art of the highest standard and that Sleaford and North Kesteven is very fortunate to have a centre that shows great forward-thinking especially by those who planned it all of those years ago.

He said: "Having a specialised centre dedicated to craft and design gives the region something to be really proud of. I hope to be able to add to the talent at the centre and put my 20 years of arts experience to some good use."