THE story of The Emperor of Exmoor has been immortalised on canvas.

Professional artist Maggie Thomas, from Sidmouth, has executed an oil painting of the giant stag whose demise on Exmoor captivated the nation. The Emperor, who stood 9ft tall, was killed at Rackenford, near Tiverton, apparently on behalf of a trophy hunter.

Titled Execution Day, the painting shows the stag standing in snow between two rows of trees, and is on display as part of an exhibition at Honiton's East Devon Business Centre.

The exhibition includes works by other artists and runs until January 21.