A bespoke bed created by members of the community is sitting sit among those slept in by 17th and 18th century royals.

The Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber exhibition, at Hampton Court Palace, showcases seven spectacular beds.

Six of these are hundreds of years old and tell the stories of their aristocrat owners and servants, but visitors will discover one hidden bed created by more than 100 members of the community.

People from all walks of life, including mothers and toddlers, young carers, a sewing group and adults with learning difficulties took part in the project.

The group shared personal stories of their dreams and the most unusual beds they had slept in to develop a vision for their creation, which they then stitched into illustrations.

The new bed will sit in the very spot where King William III once took his naps and it is hoped the voice of the community will now fill the historic Baroque room.

Sutherland Forsyth, outreach and community involvement officer at historic royal palaces says: “We’re incredibly proud of this bed, which is a real testament to the vibrant community surrounding the palace, and our role within it.

“The bed tells a really diverse range of stories from across the community and we’re sure it will breathe new life into the magnificent surroundings of the King’s state apartments.”

The community bed in Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber; Hampton Court Palace; March 27 to November 3; 10am to 4.30pm; Cost included in admission, £8.80-£17.60; 08444 827799.