THE Abbey steps in the centre of Malvern have been given an update as part of the Route to the Hills project.

A series of illustrated plaques have been installed on the pathway below the steps, which links Great Malvern Priory churchyard and Abbey Road.

The five quirky illustrations, created by artist Chichi Parish, tell the stories associated with the town’s fascinating past including the Victorian water cure, early car manufacturing, medieval monks, artists, playwrights and musicians, and donkeys.

A set of new York stone steps have also been installed, each one hand-engraved depicting an image of a monk and words promoting the nearby Malvern Museum in Priory Gateway.

Chichi Parish has been been working with the Route to the Hills project, and has contributed designs for panels, brass pavement studs, signage and public space roundels.

The overhaul of the Abbey Steps is part of the final stages of the Route to the Hills project, which has created a new heritage trail leading up from the railway station through the town and on to the hills.

It offer visitors a new way to explore the town while learning more about Malvern’s fascinating heritage through a series of plaques, signs, benches and other creative installations.

The project is funded by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and has been overseen by a partnership of ten organisations, led by Malvern Hills District Council.

Cllr David Watkins, chair of the Route to the Hills Project Board, said: “This is another wonderful example of how the Route to the Hills project is helping to enhance the look of our town. At the same time it is showcasing our fascinating heritage and encouraging visitors and residents to find out more about the people who helped make Malvern what it is today.”