A TIVERTON artist’s Bible-inspired paintings will be exhibited with one of the most important artefacts in the Christian world.

Visitors to St Andrew’s Church in Tiverton will be able to view Rosa Tuffney’s acclaimed work alongside one of six official replicas of the Turin Shroud – a piece of linen cloth containing the image of a crucified man’s body, back and front.

Stretching around 14ft in the length, the shroud, which is the only one of its kind in the UK, will take up almost the full width of the church’s interior when it goes on public display from Tuesday, April 30, to Sunday, May 5.

Created using modern imaging equipment, the Vatican-approved replica shrouds are 100% accurate copies of the original cloth, which is kept at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin, northern Italy.

Rosa, who produces her work from a studio in Tiverton, said she was not aware of the shroud’s visit when her request to exhibit her paintings was accepted by the Rev Allan Sheath, of St And-rew’s Church.

“I’am just made up about it,” said Rosa, who produced wildlife art before turning her attentions to biblical themes after becoming inspired by a series of strange dreams she had three years ago.

“It’s by far the most exciting thing I’ve done to date.”

“I see my work as a way for me to bring alive the scripture of the Bible.”

The Rev Sheath said the shroud’s visit was the largest arranged by a parishioner after they saw it on display at Worcester Cathedral.

He said: “It’s quite a coup for us.

“It will put not just St Andrew’s on the map, but also Tiverton, I’d think.

We’re delighted to be receiving it.”

Visitors can view the shroud daily during the exhibition between 10.30am and 4.30pm.