THE ceremonial banner of a now defunct organisation that helped people who had fallen on hard times has been restored.

The Fivehead Friendly Society standard, which is of significant artistic and textile importance, was falling apart after years of neglect and was discovered two years ago rolled up under the altar of the village church.

Following its restoration, it now hangs in the village hall.

Oliver Howard, who led the project on behalf of the parish council, said: "It's wonderful to see the banner so well conserved and preserved for posterity.

"Our thanks for funding go to St Andrew's Conservation Trust, Fivehead Parish Council, and Edward Matterson, whose family used to live at Langford Manor, in Fivehead.

"It must be remembered that friendly society was of vital importance to the villagers of Fivehead, providing support and money, and to help them stay out of the workhouse or suffer the indignity of a pauper's grave."

Fivehead Friendly Society existed from 1865 to 1939, with members making small regular contributions to a central fund from which anyone was entitled to draw in time of need.

Anyone needing financial support was referred to as being "on the box" as the society's money was kept in a box, which had three different keys, held by the two stewards and the secretary.

The entrance fee in 1887 was two shillings and sixpence and the monthly subscription was one shilling.

The population of Fivehead in 1901 was 337, and the society had about 100 male members.