AN important panel from the Harris Museum's famous Egyptian Balcony will be restored, thanks to sponsorship from a local organisation.

The Preston Law Society will pay for the conservation of the three-foot square panel, which was designed to fit into the ceiling of the entrance to the balcony, will be cleaned, repainted and the backing board replaced.

The panel was created by artist John Somerscales, who spent four years in Egypt before returning to paint stunning murals of the pyramids and other Egyptian scenes in 1913.

The colourful murals are surrounded by hieroglyphics and images of mummified humans and animals.

John O'Donnell, president of the Preston Law Society, said: "We are very pleased to be able to make this important contribution to the work of the Harris.

"The Egyptian Balcony is a unique aspecte of the building which is extremely popular."

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