A STATUE that was donated to Somerset by children from Taunton in the United States was unveiled at a museum last week.

The Good Fairy statue was given to the children of Taunton, Somerset, in 1939 by the children of Taunton, USA to mark the 300th anniversary of the town in Massachusetts.

More than 500 people visited the Museum of Somerset on the May 6 bank holiday where they were able to enjoy the unveiling of The Good Fairy statue.

Cllr Nick O’Donnell said: “The statue has been in the council offices for nearly 40 years. It has been my goal to see it displayed in the public realm so that the children of Taunton can once again see and enjoy their gift.

“I am delighted to have achieved this and feel as if I’m The Good Fairy Godmother.

“The statue was on display in the former library on Corporation Street until the mid-1980s and I’d be very pleased to hear people’s reminiscences from that time.

“Over the weekend we discovered that the bronze was cast in Taunton Massachusetts which makes it even more special.

“My thanks also go to First Manufacturing who were able to produce the display case so quickly.”

This event, held in partnership with Taunton Town Council, saw The Mayor of Taunton, Cllr Nick O’Donnell, give a talk about the history of the statue.

Families took part in fairy-themed crafts and trails.

The meter-high, bronze figurine depicts a girl’s profile when viewed from one side and a boy’s profile from the other.

Having been behind closed doors for many years it is now on display at the Museum in the Discovering Gallery.

It was a long-held ambition of The Mayor to see the statue back on public display.