Long Melford society marks 50th milestone with public event to celebrate village's historic ties

A public event paying homage to Long Melford’s rich heritage will coincide with a significant milestone at the weekend.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Long Melford Historical and Archaeological Society, which was established in 1969, a series of informative talks and exhibits exploring the village’s past will take place at the Old School Community Centre on Sunday.

An archaeologist will be on hand to shed light on some unidentified artefacts discovered by villagers.

Julie Thomson, a committee member, highlighted the role of the group in preserving the village’s historic ties.

“Long Melford has so much heritage – it’s important to keep that interest alive so that lots of visitors experience our history when they come to the village,” she said.

“We are a vibrant society and we are keeping up with the times.

“This day is about sharing that with visitors and people who live here, and we hope they will support the society by joining.”

Mrs Thomson, who is the village’s parish recorder, will be delivering an informative talk on a past project, which documented the recollections of 12 villagers over a period of 12 years.

Medieval wooded stocks – dating back to the 1800s – which were used for corporal punishment, are expected to draw attention.

“I think many people from the village will take the opportunity to have a look at them,” said Mrs Thomson.

Photos from the group’s archives will be showcased, including pictures of former police constables who served in the village.

Senior archaeologist Faye Minter will provide insight into the village dating back from the prehistoric times to the Anglo Saxons.

A series of informative talks are being staged at the Heritage Centre and Holy Trinity Church.

The group hosted a celebratory meal to mark its 50th anniversary on Tuesday.

Sunday’s event, which is free to attend, runs from 11am to 3pm.