AN artist from Upper Welland, near Malvern, has been given a special award for her outstanding service to the Royal Institute of Oil Painters.

Olwen Tarrant was presented with the Dartington Crystal chalice at the institute's last meeting in the Mall Gallery, London.

Mrs Tarrant, who has also been elected a fellow of the institute, has just completed a five-year stint as its president, the first woman to occupy the position.

Presenting the chalice was Dame Stella Rimington, the first female head of MI5.

Dennis Syrett, incoming president of the institute, said the chalice was the highest accolade the institute can bestow.

Mrs Tarrant currently has a one-woman show at the Alexander Clayton Gallery, Stratford. She will also taking part in an exhibition at Ledbury in February.