A NEW exhibition exploring the rich history of the Island's county town of Newport is to open at the Museum of Island History.

To celebrate the launch, residents can visit for free on Tuesday, February 22, and Thursday, February 24, between 10am and 1pm.

Located at the historic Guildhall in Newport High Street, the display will showcase the archaeology and social history of the town with photographs, paintings, and artefacts.

The exhibition has been supported by a grant from Historic England as part of the High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) cultural programme.

The exhibition will develop throughout 2022 and will be accompanied by further free entry days, family workshops and history talks.

Corina Westwood, from the Isle of Wight Heritage Service, said: "We hope to develop the exhibition alongside the people of the Island and would like people’s memories and stories of the town to add to the display.

"The funding will also assist the compilation of a Newport resource pack which will be available online and we hope to welcome schools to try out a Newport-themed workshop.

"In half term week there will be a photo hunt for families, and activities to take away."

Newport Roman Villa will also be open on Monday, February 21, between 10am and 2pm, for the reduced price of £1 per person.

Explore the incredible Roman remains, museum display and Roman garden.

There will be a photo hunt for families and an activity pack to complete at home.