Taunton's new MP has praised the Liberal Democrat town council for supporting three of the town's key cultural institutions.

Gideon Amos credited the council for safeguarding jobs and investments generated by the Brewhouse, the Museum of Somerset, and the Creative Innovation Centre.

These cultural beacons were all "at risk due to a lack of funding" but were saved by the council’s Venue Cost Grant.

Mr Amos said: "Taunton Castle and the Museum of Somerset, our theatre and CICCIC are the pride of our county town so full marks to our town councillors for securing their future.

"All three provide jobs and attract key investment to our town.

"It is our duty to maintain the castle and the heritage collection it houses for future generations.

"As a bastion it survived bombardment by both sides in the civil war - luckily the recent General Election has seen a much more peaceful transition of power and I’m delighted the future of the castle and our key heritage and cultural organisations has been secured".

The Brewhouse, run by the Taunton Theatre Association Ltd, got £28,940 to use on staff expenses for the LEARN educational program.

The Museum of Somerset was granted £30,500, and the Creative Innovation Centre received £49,500 to support its core operations, including payment for arts and culture providers.

Cllr Tom Deakin, Taunton Town Council leader, said: "With three of the town’s key cultural attractions all telling us through their applications that they were at risk due to lack of funding, it was only right we stepped in."

An extra £38,000 was given out to various community organisations.

Mr Deakin added: "At an overall level we are offering over £250k in community grants and sponsorship - directly funding back into the community we represent."