A Sussex sculptor has been chosen to create a lasting impression of the Queen Mother.

David Cornell, 66, was contacted by the Royal Mint hours after her death and asked to prepare a commemorative coin.

The coin will be distributed in one of the Commonwealth countries as a tribute to the life of the longest-lived member of the Royal Family.

Mr Cornell, of Innhams Wood, Crowborough, has designed more portraits of Royal Family members than any other artist.

But he said he would always have a special place in his heart for the Queen Mother.

He said: "I feel privileged. It is a real honour to be asked to design this coin."

The lettering to surround the image will not be finalised until it has been decided in which of the countries the coin will be used.

Mr Cornell said: "I will probably choose a portrait of her when she was about 70.

"I think she was always proud of her looks. She was extraordinarily beautiful when she was younger and always felt she didn't want to be portrayed as an old lady."

Mr Cornell met the Queen Mother twice when he did a series of coins which she had to approve personally.

He said: "The first time I met her I had walked from Charing Cross train station and it was pouring with rain. I turned up looking like a drowned rat. I was given a towel to dry myself.

"She was a marvellous and incredible person. She gave me special photographs to use for the coins.

"I have had a long association with her so it is very sad for me and I have lots of memories."

Mr Cornell worked at the Royal Mint as a full-time engraver for four years until 1964 when he started working freelance from home.

His other designs include the Diana, Princess of Wales, memorial £5 coin, cameos of the Dutch royal family and a 90th birthday portrait of the Queen Mother.

After his final design is approved by the royalk officials, Mr Cornell will mould the coin with lettering ready to be produced by the Royal Mint.