A key to a Norman tower in West Malling has been returned with an anonymous note more than 40 years after it went missing.

The large brass key for St Leonard's Tower, which is managed by English Heritage, was returned in the post with a note saying it had been "borrowed" in 1973 and apologising for the delay.

It said simply: "Borrowed 1973. Returned 2020. Sorry for the delay."

While the locks at the tower have long since been changed, the key fitted perfectly in the original keyhole.

The charity announced the bizarre news today saying there was no fine for a late return - and they would in fact like to thank the person who returned it with a gift of membership to the charity.

The Norman tower keep, which is thought to have been built between 1077 and 1108, stands in St Leonard's Street.

Roy Porter, English Heritage’s senior properties curator, said: “It’s certainly one of the most puzzling packages we’ve ever received and just in time for Christmas. It’s a modern mystery to add to the historical questions posed by the tower.

"We’d love to reward the honesty of whoever returned the key with a gift of membership. If that’s you, please get in touch.”

He added: "This year has been an extremely challenging one for English Heritage and we would like to thank all our members and visitors for their support, without which we just couldn’t care for historic gems like St Leonard's Tower."

If you sent the note to English Heritage, let us know at messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk or get in touch with customer services on 0370 333 1181 or email customers@english-heritage.org.uk

English Heritage membership gives access to more than 400 historic places across the country all year round, and helps pay towards keeping history alive for years to come. Click here to find out more.

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