The Bug Buggy cruised into Bedminster yesterday carrying the first three creatures – offering a taste of the display which is part of the Mary Portas Pilot to reinvigorate local shopping districts.

Each bug will take pride of place on buildings, in shops and throughout Bedminster's streets, with organisers inviting visitors to spot each of the critters while experiencing the area's diverse amenities, shops and eating establishments.

Ben Barker, a resident and Mary Portas Pilot champion, said: "The project is one of the many artistic initiatives that the town team has brought to the area.

"Local and national artists have been scouted to add a splash of colour to a host of bugs including caterpillars, ladybirds, butterflies, bed bugs, earwigs and a stag beetle.

"The smaller bugs are each being painted by a local school and eight huge bugs will take to the street for one year from March 15."

Steve Hayles, curator of the project and owner of Upfest gallery in Bedminster, added: "We have enlisted the help of Bristol's finest urban artists to paint the bugs, which each has its own style and personality.

"There will be some recognisable pieces, some beautiful surprises and some hidden gems on the trail, which are in production as we speak ready to descend on Bristol."