A 17th century painting that is evidence of Launceston's Royalist support during the Civil War should stay in the town, say councillors.

Their view was expressed at a meeting last week to discuss work on town council-owned paintings.

The painting of King Charles I and his equerry hangs in the Guildhall.

It is a copy of Anthony van Dyck's equestrian portrait and although the artist is unknown, it is thought possible that the face of the King might have been painted by van Dyck.

It is thought to have been hidden from view during the Civil War. The painting was found in the 1880s — it formed part of a temporary wall dividing a store room above one of the town centre shops, where it had remained unnoticed for generations.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.