A NEW exhibition called Castle and Community starts at Saffron Walden Museum this Saturday.

It takes a look at the origins and historic homes of Saffron Walden, from Norman times until the present, and focuses on the history of Castle Street, which has been the subject of extensive research by the Castle Street Residents’ Association.

Documents, maps, archaeological finds and objects found in houses will be used to illustrate the story, with voices of former Castle Street residents bringing it to life.

The recordings were made during an oral history project led by archivist and local historian Zofia Everett.

The exhibition starts with a brief survey of the town’s origins with the Norman Castle and includes the latest news on results from an archaeological geophysical survey of the Castle’s inner bailey area.

It will touch on themes such as living conditions and health, local traders and occupations and a few of the families who made up the Castle Street community.

Exhibits include the earliest surviving medieval deed to mention Castle Street, dated 1290; historic photographs; and one of the town’s less welcome former inhabitants – a black rat.

Normal admission charges apply – 1.50 adults, 75p discounts and children free. The exhibition will run until January 27 next year.