A THREE-year project mapping the physical features and history of a Worcester-shire parish is about to be unveiled to villagers

The Great Witley and Hillhampton Parish Map is the result of a huge research project - gathering information about the local geology, history, landscape, buildings, people and wildlife.

The idea was conceived by parish councillor, writer and artist Diana Winsor, who has lived in Great Witley for the past 25 years.

She has now completed the four feet square document.

"I was attracted by the idea because it is such an interesting parish," she said.

"We have a lot of history and it is a very beautiful area. The geology is so unusually diverse that it is now part of the Abberley and Malvern Hills International Geopark."

Geoparks are areas with an internationally significant geological heritage, added Ms Winsor, aged 59, who has become a bit of an amateur geologist since undertaking the map.

During the course of her research, she has unearthed all sorts of fascinating details about the parish.

"I did not know that Woodbury Hill was not just an Iron Age Fort. There was an organisation called the Worcestershire Clubmen during the Civil War.

"They were so angry about the way the area was ravaged by both sides that a thousand of them gathered on the hill to protest. All kinds of interesting things came up."

Many local people, former villagers and visitors also contributed their memories of the area.

"The worst moment of all was putting the first ink and colour on the paper. It was a bit nerve wracking. I had to organise it in advance," said Ms Winsor.

"I felt fantastic and relieved to finish it. There were times when I thought I would never get it done."

The map has been dedicated to the memory of the late Doug Bowen, former chairman of the parish council who died last month.

Ms Winsor is keeping the original version and a facsimile will hang in the village hall after the unveiling on Thursday, March 16.

Smaller copies will be available to buy from Ms Winsor who can be contacted on 01299 896587 or by e-mailing diana.winsor@virgin.net