A HAND imprint left in the 19th Century has been found on the roof of Hanbury Hall's orangery.

The discovery was made during vital repair works to the orangery roof at the National Trust property near Droitwich.

Contractors are currently working on the roof which includes replacing the lead gully which runs around the edge of the mid 18th Century building.

This will prevent water leaking inside and damaging the interior of the orangery which houses citrus plants.

"Work is progressing very well," said Hanbury Hall's head gardener Neil Cook.

"The plants inside the orangery are still very well protected."

The scaffolding for the repairs has also provided staff at the hall with the chance to take a closer look at the orangery roof.

"We have made some interesting discoveries, including a 19th Century lead inscription with the imprint of a hand," said Mr Cook.

The roof works should be completed by the end of May in time for the citrus plants to go into the hall's gardens for summer.