DRIVERS are reminded that the main road in Taunton town centre will be closed to traffic for three hours today (Monday, November 20).

The closure of North Street from 10am to 1pm coincides with the official opening of a new motor museum.

TV's Richard Hammond - most famous for his role as a Top Gear presenter - will do the honours at County Classic Motor Museum.

Invited guests will get their first glimpse of dozens of cars and motorbike - and even an aeroplane in the museum.

READ MORE: Richard Hammond to open motor museum in Taunton.

The museum has been a labour of love carried out by local businessman and car enthusiast Pat Hawkins, who has sunk his life savings into the project.

The opening ceremony of the museum in the former County Stores will be conducted by Mr Hammond along with Mr Hawkins and local dignitaries aboard a historic flat-bed lorry at 11am.

VIPs and a group of schoolchildren will then be given the chance to check out the exhibits on display inside, while people who have helped make the museum a reality will also be given a tour.

The doors will open to members of the public at 8.30am the following day (Tuesday, November 21).

The County Gazette will bring you a report and pictures from the opening event.