FUND-raising is underway in a West Somerset community to pay for a portrait of King Charles III to be hung in the village hall.

Kilve parish councillors earlier this year refused an offer of a free portrait to commemorate the King’s accession.

But villagers who were unhappy with the council’s attitude then held a poll to see if it reflected the wider feelings of the community.

On an eight per cent turnout, the survey revealed 75 per cent of respondents did want a portrait of King Charles for the village.

Village newsletter editor Jenny Kent warned concerns had been raised about the way the issue had been handled and said decisions were made in good faith and it was not right to approach individuals, because it could put off people from serving the community.

She said parish council decisions should be raised directly with the clerk, while any issues for the village hall should be sent by email, post, or in person at a committee meeting.

Ms Kent said: “Would villagers please use the formal channels in order to protect individuals involved.”

The village hall committee later agreed that if a portrait was presented, it could be hung in the building.

A collection point for the fund is now being hosted by Matt and Charlotte Hirst in Kilve Village Stores and Post Office until the end of November.

Villager Pat Woolley said several residents had already said they were willing to contribute to the cost of buying a portrait.

Copies of the portrait can cost up to about £60 depending on its size, and a decision on how large a print to order will be made after the fund closes.

The Government allocated £8 million to cover the cost of offering a free portrait of King Charles to every local council.

It later extended the scheme to include hospitals, Coastguard operations centres, Job Centres, universities, Church of England places of worship, and other public buildings.

The portrait was taken at Windsor Castle by photographer Hugo Burnand showing King Charles wearing a Royal Navy uniform of an Admiral of the Fleet with official medals and decorations.