Local history is set to come alive in Elmbridge after a heritage trust got the go-ahead.

The new trust has been set up to “champion the cause of bringing local heritage to life for the benefit of community” as well as helping attract visitors to the area.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “The idea has been developed over the last year and the trust has now been incorporated with four local trustees.

“Discussions have been held with many local people and groups – and all have been hugely enthusiastic.

“The trust would like the potential new centre to reflect the importance and wealth of local heritage and, in particular, capture many of the extraordinary personal stories of people who have lived, worked and contributed to the fantastic area in which to live and work.”

Possible locations are currently been discussed among the four trustees, all of whom are Elmbridge residents.

Elmbridge and Walton MP Dominic Raab has agreed to be a vice patron.

The trustees intend to survey residents’ views and will contact interested groups as the plans develop.

Anyone interested in contributing towards, assisting, or learning more of the Elmbridge Heritage Trust contact Nigel Abbott on gnabbott@aol.com