LITTLEBURY artist Brian Sanders is pictured at work on a new painting specially commissioned for the front cover of the Saffron Walden Historical Journal.

The painting brilliantly recreates in colour the scene at Saffron Walden on November 19, 1940 when the Home Guard were inspected in the market square only six months after their formation. The picture illustrates the fascinating stories of Saffron Walden Home Guard, gathered together by former town clerk Malcolm White in the latest issue of the journal.

Also published for the first time is a remarkable analysis of the ‘trial by newspaper’ in the case of Sarah Chesham, the Clavering woman who was put on trial four times for poisoning children and her husband, and eventually hanged at Chelmsford in 1851.

In an enlarged edition, the journal is packed with many other original articles including the history of Little Walden Deer Park, the centenary of the Four Acres Community in Saffron Walden, the discovery of a hitherto unknown 18th century map of the town and the finding of the Ashdon hoard treasure trove. The life of the Marquis d’Oisy, a gifted and eccentric artist who lived at Pledgdon Green, is illustrated by examples in colour of his artistry at Thaxted.

Published by volunteers in the Saffron Walden Historical Society, the journal is always a good read and copies can be obtained at the Tourist Information office, Waitrose, Lankester Antiques and other outlets, or from the treasurer at 9 High Street, Saffron Walden, price �2.50.