WORK starts on July 1 to install a major piece of artwork to enhance the St James Street area of Okehampton.
The sculpture, 'Jim the Hiker', has been funded by Okehampton Town Council to the tune of £14,000 and he will be surrounded by a mural of North Dartmoor which covers the complete gable end of Telecare Electrics.
The scheme is a collaboration between the town, borough and county council and was designed by town architect Peter Woodgate together with sculptress Wendy Evans-Webb and artist Pat Caseley.
The work will continue to August 12 and during this time the confluence of St James Street with Park Row will be closed. A notice of alternative routes will be issued by Devon County Council in due course.
The sculpture is part of a large enhancement programme for Okehampton town centre which has already seen road improvements, pedestrian safety schemes, landscaping, seating and other artwork.
Construction work will be carried out by local contractor Ross Campbell.