History enthusiast Barbara Hopper has been delving into the past to discover the story behind her local church.

Now, after 10 months of research, she has published a booklet telling the story of St Nicholas Church in Warndon, Worcester, where she worships.

Mrs Hopper, who lives in Warndon Villages, moved to Worcester six years ago and has been trying to build up a picture of how the area developed over the centuries and how people lived.

"I have been able to relate developments in the church to what has been going on in the community at the time," she said.

She said the Saxons built a church on the site but the present building went up in the 12th Century and the black-and-white tower was built in 1572.

The church seems to have come under attack from Parliamentarians in the Civil War when soldiers requisitioned Warndon Court Farm and shot out the stained glass windows depicting the lord of the manor's coats of arms.

"Lead shot was found in the walls where they had shot at the windows and ruined the glass," she added.

The booklet costs £3 and is available from Lyppard Grange Community Centre, St Nicholas Church, Worcester History Centre, Worcester Records Office, Ottakers bookshop and by calling Mrs Hopper on 01905 731618. All profits from the sales will go to St Nicholas Church funds.