NOW the wraps are finally off the new Teignmouth museum, it is proving to be the iconic landmark building many predicted.

The premises at the French Street-Hollands Road junction is a stunning presence on one of the main roads into the town.

The building was last week handed over to Teign Heritage after workmen carried out the finishing touches, after the demise of main contractor Rok.

This week, volunteers have been busy moving in hundreds of exhibits from storage premises in Teign Street. Three truck loads were needed to ferry it across town, under the watchful eye of removal boss Shawn Rodwell.

Colin Trigger, chairman of Teign Heritage, said it had been a long haul since the extension and refurbishment was first mooted nearly ten years-ago.

'A great deal of preparation was needed to obtain funding and design approvals – the actual building only took about a year.

'It is very exciting for us, and the town. It is going to take some months to arrange all the exhibits and we hope to be open to the public by the end of May.

'I am sure it will enhance the town centre area, and we will be erecting a sign stating Teign Heritage Centre, Home of Teignmouth and Shaldon Museum,' Mr Trigger added.