Take a look at days gone by with these great photographs of Drayton & Taverham. The villages of Drayton and Taverham are situated around 5 miles north-west of Norwich.

Norwich Evening News: Long Dairies manager Mr Charles Sinclair with deliverymen Mr Brian Wester, left, and Mr Peter Read, July 1991. Picture: Archant libraryLong Dairies manager Mr Charles Sinclair with deliverymen Mr Brian Wester, left, and Mr Peter Read, July 1991. Picture: Archant library (Image: Archant)

These neighbouring villages might feel like very modern Norwich suburbs, but they have a fascinating past dating back more than 1,000 years. Look closely and there is plenty of evidence of its historical significance.

The Taverham sign at the junction of Fakenham Road and Sandy Lane pictures the village's patron saint St Walstan - who was also the patron saint of farm workers and agriculture, and who worked and died in the village in 1016,

Norwich Evening News: In a pleasant setting, young children and their parents enjoy the swings in the Florence Carter playing field at Drayton in July 1967. In the background is Drayton church. Picture: Archant LibraryIn a pleasant setting, young children and their parents enjoy the swings in the Florence Carter playing field at Drayton in July 1967. In the background is Drayton church. Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant Library)

And while modern housing has transformed the area in recent years, it's historic past remains at the heart of Drayton.

The Red Lion pub is famous for its roasts today, but during the 17th century it was a busy coaching inn. Tucked behind it is the medieval St Margaret's church and the village green - a focus for community life for centuries to come.

Norwich Evening News: Taverham Village sign, which pictures the village's patron saint St. Walstan, is at the junction of Fakenham Road and Sandy Lane. It was unveiled by the president of Taverham W.I Mrs. Barbara Shepherd, who presented it to Mr J. Bell, chairman of Taverham Parish Council on January 9, 1971. Picture: Archant LibraryTaverham Village sign, which pictures the village's patron saint St. Walstan, is at the junction of Fakenham Road and Sandy Lane. It was unveiled by the president of Taverham W.I Mrs. Barbara Shepherd, who presented it to Mr J. Bell, chairman of Taverham Parish Council on January 9, 1971. Picture: Archant Library (Image: Archant)

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