TWO interesting ‘cartoon characters’ from the 1940s have been drawn to the attention of the Times by an Okehampton local historian.

Mike Wreford explained: ‘American and Polish Service personnel were welcome additions to Okehampton during World War Two and integrated well into the town.  

‘What is not generally known is that there was a base for American soldiers on the corner of North Street and Fore Street.  

‘These were often soldiers resting or convalescing after serving somewhere else.

‘A few years ago a building surveyor, while carrying work in the building, discovered four Walt Disney like characters painted on a wall and it seems a soldier had done these, probably to pass the time. 

‘I am sure these drawings will be of interest to readers. It may be that someone has some knowledge of this as there appears to be no record of this activity in those difficult wartime conditions.’

If anyone can shed any more light on these two characters please contact Mike on 01837 52932.