HE WAS the internationally-renowned painter who was dubbed the King of Bohemia because of his unconventional lifestyle.

Augustus John moved to the New Forest in 1927 and his home at Fryern Court, Fordingbridge, became an open house for travelling artists.

His subjects included T E Shaw, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, who also lived in the Forest in the 1920s.

The painter was also highly regarded by Hampshire gypsies, who called him Sir Gustus. As president of the Gypsy Lore Society he fought long and hard for their right to travel and settle wherever they liked.

He died in 1961 aged 83 and a bronze statue celebrating his life stands beside the River Avon, which runs through Fordingbridge.

Now some of his original works have gone on display at the town's museum, which has finally reopened after almost two years.

Manager Jane Ireland said: “We were determined that something positive would come out of the Covid crisis so we used lockdown to make exciting changes that will enhance the visitor experience.

"We have introduced new displays and made extensive rearrangements to others."

Changes to the layout have been made with Covid in mind to ensure people can enjoy the museum safely. All visitors are asked to wear masks as well as sanitising their hands, and the building's ventilation has been enhanced.

Jane said: "Fordingbridge Museum is one of the major attractions in the town.

"The thousands of locals and tourists who visit us each year give us overwhelmingly positive feedback and we anticipate that the new enriched experience that we offer this year will make their visit even more enjoyable.

"The museum does not have any paid staff and is entirely reliant on volunteers.

"In order to restore our opening times to pre-pandemic levels we are appealing for locals to volunteer to give a small amount of their time.

"No previous experience is necessary and new volunteers will be fully supported by the existing staff."

Anyone interested can call the museum on 01425 654322 or 01425 657850.