WHEN the Queen visited Winchester in 1954 she was presented with a stool for her children, Prince Charles and Princess Anne.

It had been carved by James Laverty who also went on to carve a replica of the Round Table which is housed in the Great Hall.

That replica has been in Abbey House since 1987 when the then-mayor, Douglas Covill accepted it on behalf of the city.

The present mayor, Councillor Frank Pearson, was delighted to welcome Bonny Balcombe, the great grand-daughter of James Laverty to tea at Abbey House.

Bonny was pleased to see the table in situ. She has all the provenance of her family to authenticate the gifts given to the city.

James was also the carver of the black oak swan which has been prominent in Winchester High Street for many years.

Bonny said: “It is a real thrill for me to see my ancestor’s work still in use and still appreciated. So many original artefacts are lost or destroyed. At least I know of one that remains.”