Henny Carter, of Clare Gardens, was surprised to learn that a two-metre portrait of John, who lives in Petersfield, was being exhibited because she had painted her own picture of him just a few months earlier.

Her portrait of John is due to be exhibited at the upcoming Petersfield Art and Crafts Society exhibition in August.

Henny said: "I approached John before Christmas to ask him if I could paint him and he was quite happy to agree.

"Mine was more impressionistic than the photographic style that was in the National Gallery.

"He is such a character and I was looking around for some inspiration, so I thought it would be a good idea to paint him."

She added that when she showed the portrait to John he said he liked it very much.

Henny described her art as impressionistic, with an emphasis on acrylics. She said: "Ever since I was a child I have painted as a hobby. I just love it, it is so calming.

"When I sit down to paint, the afternoon seems to drift away – I would recommend it to anybody."