Watton traders have taken part in a new project celebrating the contribution of independent shops to the character and diversity of the high street.

Breckland Council has worked with the Wayland Chamber of Commerce and artist Lydia Martin to explore the people and stories behind nine new and long-standing businesses in the town.

The two-month project, called Talking Shop, has resulted in a fascinating exhibition of photographs and text which is due to go on show next week.

Lynda Turner, Breckland's executive member for localism, community and environmental services, said: 'These independent traders contribute to the local community by adding individuality, colour and variety to the High Street. This exhibition will provide a unique opportunity for us all to learn more about them and to look at Watton through their eyes.'

The exhibition will be open at The Bull pub, in the high street, from September 21.

To complement the exhibition, Wayland Partnership is displaying a Heritage of the High Street exhibition at the Dragonfly Gallery in Wayland House from September 19 to 28.

All the photographs, stories and audio recordings collected as part of the project can be found at www.wayland-chamber.org.uk/talkingshop/.

For more information contact Breckland arts officer Sam Dawson on 01362 656870.