BISHAMPTON Bertie's sortie into the village with Nurse Cox for the recent Heritage Open Day helped to attract more than 100 people along to check out the First World War effort.

Hosted by Bishampton History Society in St. James’ Church on Saturday, September 13, dozens of interested people enjoyed the displays and took part in the love token and poppy making activities.

One of the visitors, a local artist, who has recently moved to Bishampton, was so inspired by the society’s new First World War project she has offered to produce a banner in felt and appliqué to celebrate village themes, old and new.

Michelle Flint, who lectures in art and design at Stratford, contacted chairman Mike Rickard to put her suggestion forward and it is hoped the completed banner ma be hung in the church once it is completed.

Tours took place around the village and it was on one of these a visitor explained there was a Mr Dolphin, of Inkberrow, who held meeting of the Patriot's Society there, perhaps leading to the pub being named the Dolphin.

Mr Rickard, chairman of the society, said: "All in all, we were really pleased with the number of people who turned up during the day, there was a real buzz in the church which was a hive of activity and good humour, which is what we were aiming for.

"We’re now looking to build on this event and the exhibition we held at Number 8, and really ensure that Bertie becomes a familiar face in the community and an icon for our project."

Anyone with information on the village's history should contact Mr Rickard on mike.rickard@sky.com or 01386 462037 and for further information visit bishampton.org.uk.