A NATURE inspired sculpture has been unveiled at The Lexicon which will provide a soft beacon of light to those who are visually impaired.

The new public piece of art sits at the top of Bracknell High Street and transforms the old water fountain into a shining and environmentally friendly light, using solar energy.

The solar powered beacon was created by local artist Kerry Lemon, and complements the other pieces of art work within the shopping centre.

Rob Morris, general manager of The Lexicon, said: “The new light sculpture, standing more than three metres high, has an opaque finish for day with intricate brass detailing which will light up in the evening to create a warm white translucent glow.

"We are sure that it will become a popular landmark for the east side of The Lexicon.”

The tall sculpture embraces natural habitats and green spaces, inspired by the greenery in Bracknell.

Kerry Lemon, artist, said: “I am very proud of this sculpture. It was designed with the visually impaired in mind as it is highly tactile and documents the diverse flora found in a single day across the borough.

“I worked with the countryside ranger team to collect a wide range of plants across the borough's nine Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) sites.

"These were then arranged and cast to create the walls of this light beacon. It celebrates the wealth of nature found across Bracknell, and I hope that it brings residents and visitors pleasure for many years to come.”

Councillor Marc Brunel-Walker, executive member for regeneration, said: "The light beacon is the latest piece of artwork to be unveiled in our new town centre and neatly complements the other popular pieces.

"Public art is an important component in making The Lexicon a true social and cultural heart and so I welcome this new addition, which is also environmentally friendly as it runs completely on solar power.”