NINE bronze plaques celebrating more than 2,000 years of history in Malmesbury are to be mounted in the landings of the newly restored Abbey Steps.

The project is a joint initiative by Malmesbury Town Council and North Wiltshire District Council to celebrate the Millennium year.

The plaques represent significant events in Malmesbury's past which marked the start of great changes in the town.

The first plate, which will be placed at the bottom of the steps, represents Malmesbury's earliest incarnation as an Iron Age hill fort.

The last plate, which will be placed on the top landing, closest to Malmesbury Abbey, represents the year 2,000.

Mayor Catherine Doody said: "It will be the history of Malmesbury at your feet, instead of at your fingertips."

Each plaque costs £335 and has been sponsored by different groups, including Wiltshire County Council, North Wiltshire District Council, the Old Corporation, Malmesbury traders, Malmesbury Carnival Committee, the Preservation Trust and the Civic Trust.

The year 2000 plaque is to be sponsored by Malmesbury schools.

The plaques were designed by district council graphic designer, Zia Hall in consultation with town councillors.

The plaques are currently in the process of being cast and the town and district councils are hoping to have them in place on the Abbey Steps before the end of the year.