The impact of the river on Bradford on Avon will be the subject of a new exhibition to launch at the town’s museum next week.

A River Runs Through It is the name of the exhibition of maps, photos and plans charting the history of the river Avon, which will be held in the museum in Bridge Street from March 16 to April 8.

Roy Canham, a former Wiltshire county archaeologist, who is spearheading the programme of events, said: “The river is a valuable resource for historic buildings, archaeology, wildlife and landscape.

“Awareness of what it has to offer is vital for its conservation. It is an underused resource, full of special places and hidden treasures.”

As well as numerous historical talks about the river and the town that grew around it, there will be a display of aerial images of the river showing ancient settlements and burial sites revealed in survey by archaeologists, as well as colour prints of the town from more than 150 years ago.

Mr Canham said: “It’s important to show the town’s heritage because Bradford is entering a period of great change with the Kingston Mills re-development and big decisions lay ahead on how best to preserve and enhance its special qualities. The museum can act to raise awareness through events like this.”

The first of many talks, ‘Rocks, Landscape and the Evolution of the River Avon’, will be given by Elizabeth Devon, chairman of the Bath Geological Society, on Tuesday, March 24 at 7.30pm.

On Thursday, April 2, Mr Canham will speak about life on the riverbank revealed by aerial photography, and wildlife expert and photographer Dr Gill Cardy will be talking about wildlife along the river. The joint presentation starts at 7.30pm.

On Tuesday, April 7 at 7.30pm, author Nick McCamley will present a talk about the decline and fall of Bradford’s 19th century textile industry.

Tickets for each talk costs £5 (£3 for members of the Bradford Museum Society) and can be purchased from the museum or Tourist Information Centre.

Call 01225 866748 for more details.