NEW information panels and audio devices surrounding the Abbey Gateway will detail the historic site's story as restoration work continues in the ruins, writes William Cole.

The hoardings, constructed by CLR Restoration, advertise the next phases in the continuing 'Reading Abbey Revealed' Project.

A Reading Borough Council spokesman said: “This will give residents an insight into the rich history of the Quarter, as well as the ongoing works and future plans for the area."

The hoardings will also advertise the 'Reading Abbey Quarter: Then and Now' exhibition, which will be running parallel to the conservation work at Reading Museum, and is set to open May 20.

Paul Gittings, lead Borough Councillor for Culture, said: “I’m delighted by the progress we have seen so far towards the eventual reopening of this fundamental part of Reading’s history to the public next year.

"I will be continuing to monitor the progress of conservation works throughout the year with much anticipation.”

The restoration works, supported by £1.77 million in National Lottery funding, are set for completion in Summer-2018 and will be followed by a series of events in the Abbey Quarter.