HORNCASTLE Civic Society was formed by Pearl Wheatley in 1966 when the town's heritage was under threat from various planning decisions.

The current chairman Bob Pendell and vice-chairman Bob Wayne felt passionately about the town and so began working with the society upon reaching their retirements.

Mr Pendell said: "I had some time on my hands and wanted to integrate with the local society to learn more about Horncastle's history.

"I learnt that we have lost some beautiful buildings, including the Victory Cinema and Sellwood House, which was, at the time, replaced by Woolworths."

Mr Pendell and Mr Wayne have worked with other organisations with similar interests to preserve the town.

Walking through the town, residents and tourists alike are able to see the good work the society has done.

Flower planters, sponsored by local business such as Crowders, have helped the promotion of Horncastle In Bloom, making the town look more colourful and welcoming to visitors.

The introduction of blue plaques has helped to identify all of the town's hidden gems that passers-by may not know about. Places such as Marwood's Shop, the town's very own hangman and the local workhouse are all identified by these informative plaques.

Untidy river railings were given a new lease of life when the society repainted them with black paint to help the town look more tidy.

An educational book has been published called Horncastle, Then And Now and DVD called Horncastle Yesterday And Today which can be bought at Perkins newsagents.

As well as the above, the society has plenty of plans in the pipeline including more flower planters, improving the footpath near The Wong to make it pushchair, wheelchair and mobile scooter-friendly.

The society would also like to organise an exhibition promoting the town and its history and to gain more support from East Lindsey District Council officers and councillors.

A beautiful feature of Horncastle is its canal that flows through the town centre. Disused by 1889, the society wants the canal to be used once again by small boats and canoes.

It is also involved in the introduction of two local landmarks in the shape of 2D full-size horses to remember the old horse fairs that were so popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Horncastle Civic Society urges anyone with memories of the town to come forward so that they can become recorded for future generations to learn about Horncastle life. Memories such as childhood, living conditions, schools, headmasters, clubs and societies will all be welcomed.

The society has 40 members and needs more volunteers who are keen to keep Horncastle's character and charm.

If you would like to become a member or have memories to share, call Bob Pendell on 01507 525508, e-mail bob.wayne1@tiscali.co.uk or visit www.horncastlecivic.org.uk