A multi-talented man - born over 500 years ago in Pembrokeshire - who invented ‘sum’ thing that is still in daily use is being celebrated at a special exhibition in his home town.

Renaissance scholar, physician and mathematician Robert Recorde was the creator of the equals sign. He is also credited with introducing algebra to Britain, and developing the square root.

Now a new exhibition - Robert Recorde: All Angles Covered - has just been unveiled at Tenby Museum and Art Gallery.

It is being funded by the London Mathematical Society as part of its 150th anniversary Local Heroes programme, and it will be open to the public until October 31.

The son of a mayor of Tenby, Recorde went to study at Oxford University when he was only 15.

He introduced the concept of the equals (=) sign in his book, The Whetstone of Witte, saying ‘bicause noe 2 thynges can be moare equalle‘.

Recorde has been described as “one of Wales’ most important, yet unsung, residents” and the museum’s celebrations will include a series of bilingual interpretive panels, illusrated by art works and mathematical artefacts.

Said the museum’s collections manager, Mark Lewis: “This is such an exciting adventure, and we are so pleased to be involved in this national event of celebration.

“The support of the London Mathematical Society, both financially and in an advisory capacity, has been invaluable and we hope that people get to learn a great deal more about this fascinating Tenby man who has had such influence on our everyday lives.”

*Experts on Robert Recorde will be giving talks at the museum in conjunction with the exhibition.

On Friday (September 18), there is a one-man show by Gordon Roberts at 3pm, aimed at introducting children to mathematical history.

Professor John Tucker, on Robert Recorde and the History of Science, is on Friday October 9, 7pm, while Professor Gareth Roberts will talk on Robert Recorde 1510-1558, A Man of Principle in a Turbulent Age on Friday Ocrober 23, 7pm.

Tickets from the museum on 01834 842809.

For more information, visit www.tenbymuseum.org.uk