AMONG items of local history that came to light during refurbishment work at Loftus town hall, one is posing something of a mystery.

For no-one knows why the framed picture of Johnson Forbes Robertson, a great Shakespearean actor during the late 19th century and early 20th century, should have been languishing there for almost a century.

Coun Eric Jackson said: "He did a lot of touring, and the picture could stem from an appearance in the area. But I don't think he was a local man."

Coun Jackson, who represents Loftus on Redcar and Cleveland council, has researched and written a number of books of local interest, mainly about Loftus and surrounding communities, but even he is foxed.

"We would love to know more and would welcome any information anyone might have," he said. Coun Jackson can be contacted on 01287 641516.

Another discovery, during renovations of the clock tower in the summer, was an 1839 charter marking the start of the local order of Foresters. Workmen also unearthed memorial boards belonging to the order dating from 1876 to 1914.

Coun Jackson would like the charter to go on permanent show in the town hall or at Kirkleatham museum.

Last year he published a booklet on the history of the Foresters in Loftus and has been in touch with a national expert who said the artefacts were a great find.

The Loftus branch of the Foresters was known as Court Dundas 747. "What we found is the original dispensation charter which they had to get to set up on their own," said Coun Jackson.

It is dated and held in a 3ft by 3ft wooden frame. All the finds are being kept in the town hall for the time being.

"They have been there all these years but are in good condition, just covered in dust," said Coun Jackson.

Plans to set up a Foresters' Court in Loftus were formulated in 1838. Friendly societies protected the welfare of ordinary people and flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The founding members at Loftus were John Knaggs, John Read and Henry Brittain who oversaw the granting of the dispensation charter in 1839.

Membership grew over the years, and a juvenile branch was formed in 1874.

Friendly societies gradually declined, being affected especially by the two world wars. Court Dundas continued for only a few years after the Second World War and records suggest it amalgamated with Whitby around 1950