It's eyes up rather than down at Bodham, where a new village sign has been paid for by local bingo club.

The sign shows medieval villagers paying their taxes with livestock to local tax collector Mr Bod, after whom the place was named.

He was mentioned in the Domesday Book and would accept geese and pigs in payment for taxes when locals did not have any cash.

In spite of being refurbished a number of times, the original village sign, which was bought in 1977 with cash raised by the village Women's Institute, had deteriorated beyond repair.

"It was on its last legs," said village hall committee member Peter Bedell. "So we were pleased when Bodham Bingo Club offered to help."

The club, which boasts around 40 members, raised the cash for the sign at their weekly bingo sessions, which have previously benefited Bodham Playing Fields Association and helped pay for the village sports pavilion.

Guests at Sunday's celebration included residents, parish council members, district councillor John Perry-Warnes and retired vicar Rev Peter Alexander, who led a service of dedication.

Mr Bedell thanked all those who had turned out the unveiling. "I think the village sign is important as it welcomes people coming in to Bodham and the new sign is a bit of recognition for the village and all the good work done here," he said.