STROUD artist James Milroy has been selected from hundreds of candidates to paint the Diamond Jubilee pageant flotilla down the River Thames this weekend.
James, who lives in Brimscombe and teaches art part time, will join 20 other artists from across the UK on Millennium Bridge to paint the 1,000-strong fleet of vessels on Sunday, June 3.
The BBC put the request out for artists to take part in the event by contacting art clubs and organisations throughout the land and will be supplying the chosen few with an easel and material on the day.
James has become increasingly well known for his ability to capture busy scenes since painting a bustling crowd of beaming revellers waving Union Jack flags to celebrate last year’s royal wedding.
"I am delighted to be chosen to record this spectacular event," said James, 53.
"For several weeks I have been practising drawing boats of all kinds, including some that I know will be taking part in the flotilla.
"I have also trained myself to paint even faster than usual, so I hope I have the energy and stamina to concentrate on the task for the whole day."
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