A PROUD symbol of the North East which was destroyed during the Reformation in the 16th century has been reproduced in extraordinary detail.

The original banner of St Cuthbert, the patron saint of Northumberland, was often carried into battle and was an emblem of the region’s heritage.

It was burned during attempts to stamp out the strong Catholic identity in the area.

Its replacement was revealed yesterday by the Northumbrian Association when honorary president John Cuthbert carried it for the first time.

The association’s historian, Chris Kilkenny, who was the brainchild behind the contemporary version produced, said the original was destroyed along with statues of Cuthbert at the time of Reformation.

“The one thing that showed the identity of the North East was St Cuthbert,” said Chris.

“So they decided it had to be destroyed. They even got rid of his name from Durham Cathedral.

“I just decided one day that it was about time we had this banner back. It was a flash of light one day on the road to Chester-le-Street.

“It’s not an exact copy because there are no pictures, although there is a description in the 16th century Rites of Durham.”

Embroiderer Ruth O’Leary spent more than 800 hours expertly crafting the banner at her Sunderland home.

She said: “It went well. I didn’t really have any major problems, which was a relief. There were a couple of places where I thought to myself I really have to get this right but everything seemed to go according to plan. I’m thrilled with it.” The cost of the banner was met by Mr Cuthbert and his wife and he said it was fabulous to see it completed.

“I’ve heard various reports of its progress but now that I’ve seen it, I think it’s absolutely fabulous,” he said.