A NEW visitor centre has opened near Bridgwater. 

The Battle of Sedgemoor Visitor Centre, based at St Mary's Church in Westonzoyland was opened on March 18 by Cllr John Osman from Somerset County Council. 

A spokesman for The Battle of Sedgemoor Visitor Centre said: "The opening of the centre was the culmination of many years of work by the ZHF, a local charity, and was made possible by a substantial Rural Development Grant from Somerset County Council through its leader programme.

"We are also very grateful for the support received locally from the Church and the Diocese, and the villagers involved.

"The centre was constructed to our design by Bristol-based Beaufort Bespoke.

"The new centre uses graphic displays, touch screens and wall-mounted video screens to tell visitors the story of the Battle of Sedgemoor from its causes to its consequences.

"The three touch screens allow visitors to explore levels of detail, as they wish, by simply touching the particular picture icon on the screen.

"Static displays show the costumes and weapons used by either side and help to explain the impact and advantages they gave.

"One of the corner mounted video displays is devoted to a new film, with sound, explaining the course of the battle.

"Pressing the “Play” button and watching for the four minutes it takes is very worthwhile."

Cllr Osman was given a tour of the new centre by Stuart Hines from the Zoyland Heritage Fund and expressed his delight at the way the centre was operated. 

The new centre is now open to visitors during the normal church opening hours from 10am to 4pm or to larger groups by appointment.