WORCESTERSHIRE County Council is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn a traditional craft which could be scooped by one lucky craftsman or woman.

The council is seeking a volunteer apprentice to work on some of the exhibits on display at the County Museum at Hartlebury Castle.

Master wheelwright, volunteer Ced Lewis, has tirelessly maintained and built wooden wheels for exhibits in the Hartlebury Museum for the last 20 years and he is now offering applicants the chance to train as his apprentice.

Ced, aged 82, who works on the museum's stunning collection of gypsy caravans, is unable to do some of the heavier work required and is looking to impart his wisdom and experience onto the most suitable applicant.

The successful applicant would work alongside Ced at the museum as well as forming part of a team of volunteers of all talents; such as blacksmiths, metalworkers and engineers.

As well as free training and a year-round display of their talents in the museum, the candidate will also be given the chance to visit many other wheelwrights in the Midlands and take in a range of woodwork techniques that are not employed in Hartlebury.

Applicants must be willing to learn, have good communication skills, and have some previous experience in woodwork, although basic skills training is offered as part of the opportunity.

Robin Hill, museum development and partnerships manager, said: "The chance to work with someone of Ced's talent and experience will only come around once in a lifetime and we are urging as many people as possible to apply. It’s a unique and fantastic opportunity."

For more details, call Mr Hill on 01299 250416, or e-mail rhill@worcestershire.gov.uk.