A Sussex artist has been commissioned to create the first public sculpture of The Queen in the UK.

A tiny wax model of the bronze piece, in honour of the Golden Jubilee, was due to be presented to Her Majesty at Windsor Great Park at a private ceremony today.

Sculptor Phillip Jackson, from Midhurst, was plucked from dozens of contenders for the most prestigious commission of his career.

Mr Jackson said: "When I was told I had won last October, I was very pleased indeed. It is a great honour."

Since than he has had several conversations with The Queen about the design of the sculpture.

It was agreed she would be depicted on horseback, approximately 1.5 times life size.

Mr Jackson said: "I was not nervous but it was a huge responsibility. Everyone has a clear image of how The Queen looks and the sculpture needs to be right.

"She will be wearing casual dress as she is riding in her own park. I had to think about where the piece will stand."

The sculpture will be made in clay around a steel frame. This will be cast in plaster and finally in bronze. It will sit in a public area of Windsor Great Park along Queen Anne's ride and is expected to be unveiled in September next year.