Art enthusiasts will have the chance to get their hands on a big money prize as part of a brand new community competition.

The 'Spirit of Malvern' Open Air painting competition, organized by Malvern Creatives Connect (MCC), will see artists roaming the town and hills on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6, in search of inspiration.

Founded by Malvern-based dramatist and theatre director Kirsty Cubberley, MCC have scheduled the competition to coincide with an exhibition of Worcestershire paintings by Dame Laura Knight at the Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum.

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It is part of a broader drive to rejuvenate the community's arts scene, and follows successful MCC events at the end of last year.

Ms Cubberley said: "The very nature of the Malverns has always attracted creative people, inspiring greats such as authors C S Lewis and Tolkein, composer Edward Elgar, and artist Dame Laura Knight.

"Today, we are seeing a groundswell of energy to build on this artistic legacy, and to ensure that the historic association between Malvern and the Arts is revived and refreshed.

"At MCC, we are harnessing that energy and ambition, supporting our local creatives, and encouraging participation."

The competition, which will have a cash prize of £2,100, is open to anybody over the age of 16.

Participants will present their work in Priory Park at the end of the day, with awards to be handed out for best landscape, urban, and wildcard artworks.

The judging panel includes Tom Voyce, Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year.

In addition, a special £450 prize is available to the best painter from the WR postcode area.

MCC, supported by a range of community sponsors, requires a £20 entry fee, or £15 for early bird sign-ups.

For more details, visit https://creativesconnectweb.wixsite.com/malvern/events; sign-ups are now open at http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/creatives-connect-malvern.

The MCC network currently boasts more than 130 members, and aims to encourage community creativity through the sharing of ideas, organising events, and mutual support.

The day coincides with the Malverns' annual Water and Well Festival, which is expected to draw thousands of attendees.