It is one of the world’s most unusual job vacancies. The remote South Atlantic island of St Helena is seeking a shortish “male person willing to act as a Napoleon [Bonaparte] impersonator”.

An ability to speak French is not required for the temporary post. It is unpaid but tailor-made breeches, boots and a bicorne hat will be provided.

The job advertisement specifies that the successful candidate “will be expected to act as an ambassador for St Helena,” a British overseas territory where Napoleon was exiled and died in May 1821.

He must be “well-presented and have the ability to engage with individuals at all levels, especially dignitaries,” at events marking the bicentennial anniversary of Napoleon’s death.

The job will be demanding, with a series of events planned over the next two years, culminating in 2021.