Newly-uncovered medieval church graffiti which lay undetected for hundreds of years sheds new light on the mindset of people around the time of the Black Death, experts say.

The images include unusual scenes of riders on horseback accompanied by a figure on foot, a highly-stylised bird, and images intended to protect against witches and the devil, as well as the names of bell ringers and builders.

While the church was originally built in the 12th century, the tower was added in the 14th century.

The medieval art in the tower dates from the 14th century to the 16th, with graffiti in the main part of the church stretching all the way from the early medieval period to the 1950s.

The hidden art was discovered in the medieval tower of St John’s Church in Winchester as part of a survey of medieval graffiti taking place in 12 counties, and involving hundreds of volunteers.