Cricketer turned artist swaps bat for brush

Elliott opened the batting for Worcestershire, alongside the likes of ex-England star Graeme Hick, and scored three centuries and looked set for a long career in the game.

But he was forced to retire in 2001 after contracting a back infection after an operation on his spine.

Despite permanent and crippling back pain Elliott, 32, reinvented himself as an artist, culminating in his first solo exhibition on the Isle of Dogs later this month.

He said: "I'd trained in art when I was at school so I knew it was always going to feature in my life somewhere, it's just been a bit sooner than expected.

"It started out as a therapeutic thing between operations and it's been very rewarding. It's hard for a sportsman to have their sport, and physical activity taken away from them so I'm pleased that art has to some extent replaced that."

Elliott takes the next step on his new career path with his first solo exhibition at The Function Room in Burrell's Wharf on March 21-22.

"It's very exciting," he said. "There will be about 40 pieces on display. The exhibition has given me a focus so my output has increased tenfold.

"To be honest, I'm a bit nervous about it but that's a good thing because it shows it means something. People will be passing criticism on my work but I hope they will remember I'm still learning.

"I'm more interested in conceptual ideas rather than just reproducing still life images and I'm constantly experimenting with styles and mediums."

Elliott admitted wielding a brush can never quite replace the thrill of facing a fast bowler but he has applied himself to his art in the same way he addressed his cricket.

He said: "I'm still developing my style and I'm determined to put in plenty of hard work over the next few years to make my art career a success.

"Hopefully people will one day see something I've done and be able to recognise it as an Elliott Wilson. That would certainly be an achievement to rank alongside hitting a century."

For more information visit elliottwilson.co.uk