A TOWN first will see more visitors than ever drawn to a precious Ulverston landmark.

Later this year arts and education group ARTSPACE will take up residence in Sir John Barrow Cottage as part of its 2018 project 'Manners and Amusements'.

This marks the first time the restored home of the renowned 18th century explorer and statesman has been used for such a purpose. The cottage will be the backdrop of a series of exhibits exploring the social and environmental structures of Ulverston.

Local artist and project leader John Hall said: "This project has been in development for a while and it is great to see our artists take the first steps into their projects.

"We are grateful to Ulverston Town Council for their support and enthusiasm, and we look forward to working along side Green Lane Archaeology in order to explore the cottage and reintroduce it to the life of the town."

The name of the project, 'Manners and Amusements' is a nod to Sir John Barrow's role in furthering the understanding of other cultures in the late 18th and early 19th century. He travelled extensively during his early life, becoming the emissary to China and helping to settle the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

The installation is a partnership between visual Artist Ellie Chaney, outdoor celebration specialist Alex Blackmore and storyteller Dominic Kelly, Sir John Barrow School, Ulverston Town Council and The Sir John Barrow Monument.

Open sessions will be held where visitors can come and meet the artists in residence to see their work as it progresses.

Ulverston central ward councillor, Pauline Halfpenny, said: "I 100 per cent think it is good thing to see Sir John Barrow Cottage being used. I'm really pleased about that.

"I'd be very interested to see the exhibit. Sir John Barrow was an exalted person who was born in Ulverston, and hopefully many people will go along to the exhibit and see what it is all about."

More details about when the installations will be open to the public will be released soon. For more information visit the project's website, here.