Former North Norfolk District Council member Peter Willcox made a surprise appearance as Sir Thomas Erpingham at the unveiling of Erpingham’s new village sign for the jubilee; Photo credit: Submitted.

A special guest made a return to his home village yesterday (Tuesday) - nearly six centuries after his death.

Sir Thomas Erpingham, played by former North Norfolk District Council member Peter Willcox, returned to the village of Erpingham mounted and armed to unveil its new sign.

In his speech, Sir Thomas - who had commanded the English archers at the battle of Agincourt - welcomed the opportunity to come back to his home village.

The surprise appearance was part of the jubilee celebrations and the unveiling of the new sign marked the climax of four busy days of Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The sign’s design combines permanent elements of stainless steel and English oak with a renewable central panel which will be updated every few years. Modern computer and laser cutting technologies have been used alongside traditional woodworking and hand carving.

The pupils of Erpingham school suggested many aspects of local life that should be represented as well as painting their own pictures which are shown in the central panel.

Other jubilee events which took place in the village included a marathon charity soccer match, a barn dance, a special church service, a big village lunch, a safari dinner, open gardens, a scarecrow trail and children’s competitions.