A new bronze portrait bust of President George Abela has been placed among those of Presidents Emeriti in the courtyard of San Anton Palace.

The bronze commission was undertaken by Anglo-Maltese sculptor Robert Hornyold-Strickland.

Mr Strickland said he was honoured to be given the job and hoped he met the challenge of portraying him with his captivating smile.

Dr Abela said he was grateful for Mr Strickland's time and dedication "to produce this excellent work of art and I have been very impressed by his passion for sculpture".

Robert Hornyold-Strickland studied initially at the Heatherly School of Art, Chelsea, London.

He is the great grandson of Lord Strickland, Prime Minister of Malta between the wars, and a great nephew of Mabel Strickland, OBE.

A leading portrait sculptor he now divides his time between Malta and the UK. He works in a variety of media but principally in bronze and undertakes private and corporate commissions where he is known for his portrait busts, figurative and ornamental sculptures. Most of his works are unique pieces.

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