THE FIRST "Penarth bench" has been installed in the town centre.

The town mayor and leader of the town council, councillor Mike Cuddy joined local architect Chris Loyn, members of Penarth Youth Action (PYA) and Martin Gossage, the community chairman of the Future Projects Partnership Group at the unveiling of the bench on Bradenham Place.

The manufacture and installation of the £1080 "Penarth bench" was funded by Penarth Town Council as part of the work being carried out by the Future Projects Partnership Group.

The group consists of members of the community who volunteer their time and expertise to work with the town council to deliver improvements for the town based on the outcomes of the consultation which led to the creation of the Town Place Plan in 2014.

The bench was designed by Chris Loyn and manufactured in Penarth by Concrete Carrot.

The design on both ends of the bench, featuring the iconic Pier Pavilion, was created by members of PYA who worked with Mr Loyn and Concrete Carrot.

Subject to feedback on this first model, there are plans for further examples of the "Penarth bench" to be situated around the town centre, featuring designs created by children from a number of local primary schools.

Cllr Cuddy said: "I thank Chris Loyn who lent his professional expertise to the project on a voluntary basis, as well as the members of Penarth Youth Action who created the striking and original decoration featured on the bench. "

To provide feedback on the bench, visit the town council website to complete a form.