A £10,000 'talking seat' featuring a life-sized model has been attracting queues of people since being installed earlier this week.

There was controversy when Saltash Town Council announced plans for the seat in the town centre.

Objectors felt the idea was a waste of money in a time of austerity.

However, Councillor Bob Austin, who was behind the project, said that it was the ideal way to attract visitors and was also educational.

The seat features a model of Ann Glanville, who lived in Saltash from 1796 to 1880 and was famed for her strength at the oar. Ann worked as a waterman on the River Tamar and was also involved in rowing competitions.

Made of hardened fibreglass over a steel frame, the model 'talks' at the press of a button, telling stories of life in Saltash in a broad Cornish accent.

Shortly after its installation on Tuesday, the seat had queues of people lining up to take a picture or be photographed next to the figure.

It is thought to be the first talking seat of its kind to be installed in the UK.

Section 106 funding gained from planning application agreements has been used to pay for the seat, Mr Austin said.