Stibbard reveals new sign after nearly 40 years without one

Stibbard, near Fakenham, has been without a village sign for the last five decades.

However, with the help of local school children, the parish council has unveiled a new one featuring a crested newt, a bat, spears and a ploughman

Nea Horsford, the clerk for Stibbard's parish council, said rumour has it the last sign was stolen in the 1980s.

The event was attended by teachers, children, members of the parish council and Steffan Aquarone. (Image: Newsquest) She said: "It's only a rumour and no one knows this for sure."

Ms Horsford added the project has been a "real labour of love and it was really important to get the school involved in the process".

The unveiling happened on Friday, October 18, and was attended by teachers and children from All Saints Primary School, villagers and Steffan Aquarone, North Norfolk MP.

The process of creating the sign became a united effort when Stibbard Parish Council approached All Saints Primary School to help with inspiration.

Stibbard unveiled its new sign on Friday, October 18. (Image: Newsquest) The children were asked what they thought best represented the village and pictures of bats, poppies and newts were handed back to the council. 

Stephen Coomber, a parish councillor, took the children's images and put together a final design, which was then given to blacksmith Toby Winterbourn to craft.

The sign includes a crested newt, a bat, a replica of the ploughman on a plinth across the road from where the new sign is, a telephone booth, poppies, three spears, an axe and a toad - all of which hold historical and ongoing significance in the village.

Max Coulet, 10, who was one of the children who helped unveil the sign, said: "We're really honoured to represent the school today." 

One of the symbols in the sign is the village's telephone box, which also serves as a lending library. (Image: Newsquest) Carol Jeary, executive deputy of the school, said: "I'm really pleased the kids were able to be part of the process and it's been such a great turn out of parents to witness the event."

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Other symbols included a bat, crested newt, three spears, a ploughman and poppies. (Image: Newsquest) Bill Aldridge, chairman of the council, said: "I'm over the moon. I genuinely believe I have a tool box of brilliant councillors and I'm thrilled with the turnout for this." 

Mr Aquarone said: "It's so important that communities come together and celebrate something like this and it's been great to be part of it."