UNIVERSITY College Worcester is hosting a national arts project which allows local artists to use its facilities to develop their work.

The college is offering four places to professional artists on the Artists Access to Art Colleges' scheme, which begins in September.

Each placement offers 100 hours of access to the college's facilities with the chance to work in print, ceramics, textiles, digital media and painting.

The free scheme also allows artists to gain a £200 materials grant to support their work.

Last year, UCW came sixth in the league table of 19 institutions that took part in the scheme after being assessed by the artists who participated.

UCW is one of only four colleges and universities in the West Midlands, and one of 17 in the country, which was successful in its application to run the course again this year. It is also the only one of the 17 to offer interactive media facilities.

"We are thrilled at the prospect of this scheme for students and practising artists," said Pippa Galpin, UCW's art and design scheme co-ordinator.

Anyone who wishes to apply for the course should contact Kadri Witherall at UCW by calling 01905 855278 or e-mail k.witherall@worc.ac.uk

It offers a fantastic opportunity for them to develop their work alongside each other."