ARTIST and journalist Tracy Spiers has come up with a novel idea in memory of her late grandmother Kitty Ham who used to live at Stratford Park’s mansion house – now home to the Museum in the Park.

The Stroud mother of five, who has been working as artist in residence at the popular attraction, is currently producing a series of collectable cards depicting Kitty as a miniature figure interacting with some of the 1,000 artefacts on show.

And for half term she has devised a special Kitty Trail to give young children a chance to test their observation skills and find the object Kitty has visited.

Over the coming months Tracy, a second year BA (Hons) Illustration degree student at the University of Gloucestershire, will be producing her series of playful illustrations to celebrate her grandmother’s connection to the Museum and to encourage children to find where Kitty has been.

Kitty, who died aged 96 last April, moved to the former 17th century Clothier’s house when her husband George, a former England bowls player, secured a job as the park’s head grounds man in 1947. Their daughter Jan (Tracy’s mum), then only three, grew up in the house. The family lived there for 10 years.

“My mum and I brought Kitty back to the house when it was being converted into the museum about 14 years ago. She had dementia but as soon as she walked through the front door, she instantly remembered it. Kitty used to help serve teas downstairs while George worked outdoors. He used to have an allotment in the secret garden, which is currently being renovated,” says Tracy (44).

“The Museum is such a special asset for Stroud. It celebrates our rich history, from Budding’s lawnmower, Laurie Lee’s teacher desk from Slad School and many other fascinating things. To have a personal family connection and to know this was where my grandparents lived and where mum used to play as a child, is fantastic not only for me but for my daughters too.”

“I wanted to pay tribute to Kitty in a unique way, so I have given her a new lease of life. She gets up to all sorts of mischief. You might find her getting stuck in a knife cutter, having a bath in an old lamp holder or using a tennis ball as a bouncy hopper. She might even get stuck in a mammoth’s tooth!” she adds.

“The Museum and its fascinating collection offers endless inspiration for artists and writers,” says Ann Taylor, the Museum’s Learning Programmes Officer.

“We’re delighted to be working with Tracy and can’t wait to find out more about Kitty’s adventures. Tracy’s project will mean that children of all ages can explore the Museum in an entirely new way in future.”

For more information contact Tracy on 01453 764110 or 07766024375; or Ann Taylor on 01453 763394; to find out more log on to Tracy’s blog http://insightintoillustration.blogspot.co.uk