Shepton Mallet's Victorian-era drinking fountain, located in the Market Place, is being restored after being out of use for many years.

The fountain, believed to have been inaugurated in 1868, will be brought back into service thanks to funding from the Drinking Fountain Association and the efforts of the Town Council.

The project required Listed Building consent due to the fountain's Grade II status, and a local specialist construction firm has been appointed to handle the restoration.

The challenge has been to modernise the fountain's internal workings to meet current Water Regulations while preserving its historic character.

Work to assess the feasibility of reconnecting the fountain to the mains fresh water supply began in 2021, with Bristol Water completing necessary groundwork ahead of the Market Place resurfacing. Once fully restored, the fountain will feature a push-button tap, protected by a shroud to prevent environmental contamination, and may even reinstate the overflow system that once filled a dog bowl at the base.

A spokesperson for the council said, "We are excited to see this important part of Shepton Mallet's history brought back to life, providing fresh drinking water for the community to enjoy once again."

The restoration project is expected to be completed in the coming months, offering both residents and visitors a refreshed glimpse into the town's Victorian heritage.