The new-look Museum of Somerset has reopened to the public at Taunton Castle, following an extensive £6.93m transformation that has increased its exhibition space by 50 per cent.

Somerset County Council (SCC) invested £1.8m in the project, which is designed to explore the story of the the county from prehistoric times through to the modern day.

Exhibits at the revamped attraction include the Frome Hoard, one of the largest collections of Roman coins found in the UK. A learning centre and a café are also on offer.

Birmingham-based fit-out contractor The Hub was appointed to work on the scheme by SCC last summer, which has also included the provision of a gallery for touring exhibitions.

SCC cabinet member for community Christine Lawrence said: "The new museum is one of the biggest museum redevelopments in the South West and is a crucial part of the regeneration of Taunton.

"By attracting more visitors to the area, it will also contribute to the future prosperity of Somerset. This is a proud moment for our county."