TAUNTON is to get its equivalent of the Bayeux Tapestry thanks to Women's Institute members.

They've been busy with their needles creating an embroidered history of the county town.

The result is five large colourful panels depicting important chapters in the story of the town.

The artwork will be presented to the Museum of Somerset at an event hosted by the Somerset County Federation of Women's Institutes, which is celebrating its centenary this year.

The ceremony is being held in Castle House, part of the Museum of Somerset, next Thursday (April 26).

Federation chairman Julia Statton said: "This is a beautiful work of art and a true legacy for Taunton to be enjoyed for many years to come."

The work is the brainchild of Erica Adams, former deputy principal of Denman the WI’s national adult education college, who approached the county federation.

Artist Hazel Hillman did extensive research, working with historian Tom Mayberry, chief executive of the South West Heritage Trust.

Based on her drawings and under the expert eye and guidance of WI member and embroidery specialist Ann Mumford, images were embroidered to make stunning, delicate and evocative pieces.

Members met regularly at Wilton Lodge, in Taunotn, where they worked on the pieces and discussed progress with other embroiderers.

The finished articles were displayed for members to view at the Somerset Federation’s centenary year lunch in February and will now hang in Castle House.