STRIKING sculptures with a medieval flavour are standing guard in a North-East town.

Four metal sculptures of knights with shields, about two metres high, have been placed on the roundabout at Brus Corner, Hartlepool.

They are the last stage of a range of environmental improvements to the Brus Corner area funded by the North Hartlepool Partnership.

The sculptures are part of a project on a heraldic theme recalling North Hartlepool's heritage.

The De Brus family, after which Brus Corner is named, were originally Norman Knights who came to England with William the Conqueror and owned land in North Hartlepool.

Adam De Brus granted a charter to the ancient Borough of Hartlepool in about 1175.

The knight sculptures are made of the same type of steel used for the Angel of the North statue, and will be illuminated from inside at night.

Councillor Denis Waller, chairman of the North Hartlepool Partnership, said: "Brus Corner is a key location on a major route through Hartlepool and into the Headland.

"These improvements not only give the area a stimulating new look they also echo the area's proud history and traditions."