Monmouth's Naval Temple has been officially re-opened following major restoration work by the National Trust.

The monument, which sits atop the Kymin, is believed to be the only one of its kind in the world but had fallen into disrepair.

Many features were lost in the 19th century and attempts were made to restore it in 1882 and the late 1980s but recent harsh winters had caused severe damage.

A three-month, £85,000 project by the trust, with help from Cadw, Monmouth Royal Navy Association and Anna Tribe, the great-great granddaughter of Lord Nelson, has restored the temple to its former glory.

The restoration included two paintings in the 'triumphal arch' depicting famous battle scenes. These were painstakingly recreated by historic painter Laura Stevens.

Despite the inclement weather last Wednesday (1st August, a good crowd turned out to see the grand re-opening of the temple.

Among them was the commanding officer of HMS Monmouth, Commander Gordon Ruddock, pictured below, who said the ship's company always enjoys coming up to Monmouth.

For the full story, see this week's Monmouthshire Beacon (8th August 2012).