A landmark village sign steeped in folklore on the Norfolk coast has been taken down to be repaired.
An online appeal raised £1,400 towards the £2,000 needed to carry out work on the emblem, which has stood beside the quay at Blakeney since 1966.
But the bid smashed its target thanks to £1,000 in match funding from the Norfolk Community Fund, according to the Crowdfunder portal.
Blakeney Parish Council, which is behind the fundraising bid, said: "Together, we want to preserve the symbols that reflect our heritage and few are more iconic than the village sign on Blakeney Quay.
"Our vision is simple: to restore this treasured landmark so it continues to welcome residents and visitors for years to come.
"It’s more than just a sign, it’s a piece of living history that strengthens community pride and keeps our story visible."
As well as a ship celebrating its heritage as one of the Glaven ports, the sign features the Blakeney legend of the fiddler who volunteered to explore a smuggler's tunnel near the quay which was believed to lead inland to Binham Priory some four miles away.
The musician set off with his dog in Medieval times - so the story goes - playing his instrument as he went on his way so villagers could follow his progress from above ground.
But the music abruptly stopped at spot later known as Fiddler's Hill and while the terrified dog emerged unscathed in some accounts, its owner was said to have been taken by the Devil.
Work on the sign commemorating the legend includes repairing structural wear, repainting the intricate carved details and applying a protective finish to withstand the coastal weather.
The council said any money raised over the sum needed for repairs would go towards other heritage projects in the village.
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