HAMMET Street is one of the most elegant parts of Taunton with handsome Georgian building facades leading to the beautiful front of St Mary Magdalene Church.

But do you know how it got its name?

The answer appears in a recent biography of Sir Benjamin Hammet (1736-1800), who was born and educated in the town.

Author Mark McDermott outlines how Sir Benjamin did much to improve and promote Taunton during the 18th Century.

As well as being the local MP, he was also a benefactor, promoter of town improvements, especially Hammet Street and restorer of Taunton Castle.

During his married life in the town, he lived at Wilton House, the gardens of which today are Vivary Park, widely regarded as the jewel in the county town's crown.

He later became an alderman and sheriff of the City of London, where he worked as a banker and property developer.

He was an assertive and controversial figure in his business and political life and one one occasion was fined by the City for refusing to become Lord Mayor.

One of his achievements as an MP was the abolition of the burning of women for treason.

He acquired an estate and tinplate works in Pembrokeshire, where he lived out his final years.

Mr McDermott's biography of Sir Benjamin Hammet is published by the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society, priced £7.50, plus p&p.

To get your copy call the SANHS office on 01823-272429 or click here