A REPLICA of an eighteenth century drum has been made for the youngster who leads this year's Drummer Boy walk in Richmond on Sunday.

Former Drum Major Joe Peacock fashioned the lightweight version so it could be carried and played by ten-year-old Sam Rawson.

The Richmond Methodist School pupil also received some tips when Mr Peacock presented the instrument to him at the Green Howards Regimental Museum on Monday.

This is the second year that Sam has led the annual walk, which retraces the steps of an eighteenth century drummer boy sent underground to find a passage from Richmond Castle to Easby Abbey, a mile away, while soldiers followed above ground.

Walkers pause at a stone which marks the spot where the boy's drum ceased to be heard. Legend says he was never seen again.

The 2-mile walk, which leaves the castle at 3pm, is open to all ages and everyone who completes the route will receive a certificate from Coun Russell Lord, the town's new mayor.

Maj Roger Chapman, museum curator and walk organiser, said: "Sam's old drum was rather heavy for him to carry and beat over the whole route."