Somerset County Council (SCC) has confirmed that the new-look Museum of Somerset at Taunton Castle is to open its doors in September, following a £6.93m transformation.

The attraction will benefit from a 50 per cent increase in exhibition space, which will explore the history of the county from prehistoric times through to the modern day. Exhibits will include the Frome Hoard, one of the largest collections of Roman coins found in the UK. A learning centre; a gallery for touring exhibitions; and a café will also open.

The Heritage Lottery Fund contributed £4.8m towards the scheme, while other donors have included the Garfield Western Foundation and the Somerset Military Museum Trust. SCC cabinet member for community Christine Lawrence said: "Somerset County Council has invested £1.8m in this project, helping to make it a jewel in Somerset's crown."