Many locals believed the carved oak sign, which features a remembrance poppy and the phrase "Yaxham Remembers", was ageing "like a fine wine".

The sign, in the yard of St Peter's Church, "only needed a coat of oil every year" to stay looking spick and span.

But the sign was given a surprise coat of colourful paint on Friday, which has sparked controversy in the village.

The sign before being painted (Image: Susan Martin) The........

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