A STONE carving that helped gain listed status for an historic arts and community centre has been removed in an attempt to save its original features.

The sandstone carving has dominated the front of the Spennymoor Settlement's Everyman Theatre, in O'Hanlon Street, since the venue was built in the 1930s.

But in that time the treasured sculpture, designed by artist Tisa Hess, has been badly damaged by the elements and become heavily weathered.

To prevent any further deterioration, a copy is being installed on the front of the building and the original will be displayed inside until funds are secured for a full restoration.

When the carving was removed, hidden papers were discovered behind it and have been sent to a specialist for analysis.

It is believed that they make reference to Countess Elisabeth von der Schulenberg, known as Tisa Hess, who visited the town in 1936 and stayed for three years before the Second World War.

The artist arrived in the town in 1936 to teach woodcarving and other forms of art to, amongst others, miners from local collieries.

Volunteers who run the centre, are appealing for information about the people seen in an old photograph of the original stonemason and his apprentice fixing the carving in position in about 1938 or 1939.

Anyone who recognises either man, or has other information, is asked to contact David Alock, chairman of the Spennymoor Settlement Community Association, on (01388) 815966.