A statue of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck, fate and fortune, is being presented to St Albans by Fano in Italy to strengthen links between the twin towns.

The six-foot-tall bronze artwork is a replica of the statue of Fortuna that stands in the fountain of Fano’s main square.

The Roman town of Fano was originally named Fanum Fortunae, or “the shrine of Fortuna”, the Roman goddess of Fate.

Plans are afoot for the replica statue to go on display initially at Verulamium Museum following an unveiling ceremony later this year.

The Mayor of St Albans discussed the plans with Fano’s Mayor on a visit to the Italian town earlier this month to strengthen twinning links.

In addition, the two Mayors talked about the importance of tourism, sport and youth activities to the two cities.