The story of Wellington Monument, its history and the project to repair it, are told in the National Trust’s first podcast audio guide and a new spotter guide.

The audio guide provides an insight into the history of the monument, its ups and downs and how such extensive repairs came to be needed.

Visitors can listen on their mobile device as they walk up the beech tree-lined avenue to the monument or wherever suits them.

The spotter sheet is designed for families to share on the short walk to the landmark. They can spot wildlife highlights, along with more unusual objects connected to the current £3.45 million restoration programme.

National Trust project manager Helen Sharp, said: “We had originally planned to run scaffold platform tours for visitors to enjoy the views and see some of the damage being repaired. Social distancing rules prevent us from doing this for the time being.

“However, it’s presented us with the opportunity to tell the story of the monument in a different way, with the audio tour opening up the story to all, whether on site or on their sofa. And the spotter sheet is such a great way to keep the whole family entertained on their next walk up to the monument.”

On-site information detailing how the repairs are progressing can also be found via a news blackboard by the fence surrounding the monument. This information will be updated regularly until the completion of the restoration, expected in spring 2021.

MP for Taunton Deane Rebecca Pow said: “Despite these unusual circumstances it is great news that the Wellington Monument project is making progress – whilst it is not possible to take a tour just now the audio guide gives a fascinating insight in to the project. Please do continue to support the scheme wherever you can.”

Just under £500,000 still needs to be raised and the National Trust would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the appeal so far. To find out more about giving to the appeal visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument-appeal

The audio guide can be downloaded from Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and the National Trust app to listen to at any time, as well as streamed online at nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument

The spotter sheet can be downloaded at nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument and from the National Trust app.