A society set up to celebrate the work of a former regional daily columnist has been honoured as it approaches its 20th anniversary.

The Adrian Bell Society was set up in 1996 to keep alive the memory of the man for whom it is named, a former writer for the Eastern Daily Press.

Adrian wrote his Countryman’s Notebook piece for 30 years, between 1950 and his death in 1980.

Now the society has been included on a ‘wall of fame’ at Beccles Public Hall dedicated to organisations which support the building.

From left: Society members Bridget Patrick, John Ellwood and Brian Patrick with the newly-placed ‘wall of fame’ sign

The society holds at least two meetings every year, and organises various events and talks.

Society member John Ellwood said it was great to have “a permanent reminder in the Public Hall”, during their 20th anniversary year.

He told the East Anglian Daily Times: “He was a very interesting man to talk to, he had time for everyone.”

Describing his works, society member Brian Patrick added: “He could draw a picture in words.”

London-born Adrian moved to Suffolk in 1920 at the age of 19, and wrote more than 20 books about the countryside during his lifetime.

He also compiled the first ever Times crossword.

His son, Martin, is a former BBC war reporter who served as an independent Member of Parliament between 1997 and 2001, while his daughter Anthea is known for translating Asterix comic books from French into English.