The Bunbury Arms Public House, which stands on the A143, was built under the direction of Sir Henry Edward Bunbury in 1844. The pub sign depicts the Coat of Arms of the Bunbury family. Strictly the Coat of Arms are those on the shield. Their purpose was to distinguish one from another in battle. The Bunbury's coat of arms is a black diagonal line on a white shield with three chess pieces - Rooks. Above the shield is an open iron helmet, used to depict Knights and Baronets. The Bunbury's were Baronets the title Sir being passed down to the eldest son, their wife would have the title Lady. Above the open iron helmet is the crest of the Bunbury family, a Leopard with two diagonal swords with the tips uppermost. The Crest would be worn for decoration in Jousts or Tournaments on top of the helmet made of papier-mâché or light wood. The black and white decoration on either side of the helmet and shield is called Mantleing. In the Holy Wars knights wore light material over their armour to reflect the heat and to keep them cool. Over time this would be shredded and in ribbons. This is depicted by the Mantleing.
The top Latin phrase FIRMUM - IN - VITA - NIHIL means "Nothing in life is permanent".
The lower Latin phrase ESSE - QUAM - VIDERI means "To be, rather than to seem".

The wall plaques and inscriptions within Holy Innocents Church are described in the "Heraldry of Suffolk Churches" Volume 45 or for more details contact Dr. G Heathcote.

Mick Brabrook 21-03-08