Cartoonist Chris Riddell to be Booktrust writer in residence

Riddell announced his new appointment in one of his trademark illustrations

Award-winning illustrator Chris Riddell has been appointed the new online writer in residence for British literary charity Booktrust.

The political cartoonist, who won the Costa children's book award this month for Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse, will take on the role for six months.

From 3 February Riddell will provide weekly blog posts, mainly in the form of illustrations and sketches.

He replaces Laura Dockrill, author and illustrator of Darcey Burdock.

The cartoonist is known for his Ottoline series

Riddell announced his new appointment in one of his trademark illustrations, which features a small boy, a smaller bat and an elephant.

"I'm delighted to announce that I have unloaded the metaphorical pantechnicon and signed the tenancy agreement to take up residency in the belfry of the Book Trust," its caption reads.

The Observer cartoonist is known for his Ottoline series, as well as his partnership with Paul Stewart on the Edge Chronicles, Muddle Earth and Barnaby Grimes books.

Riddell also teamed up with Neil Gaiman on The Graveyard Book, which won the 2009 Booktrust teenage prize.

Among his other awards include the Smarties Book Prize and the Kate Greenaway Medal.