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Historical ‘witch marks’ have been discovered at the 17th century Llancaiach Fawr manor house, near Nelson.

The marks, which were used in the past as an attempt to defend a house from evil spirits, were discovered by Alicia Jessup, who is one of the site’s historical interpreters.

The marks have been carved into wooden beams, panelling, stonework and plastering.

Many of the marks are carved near chimney breasts, windows and door frames – which were all deemed as the most likely places witches and evil spirits would use to enter the manor.

Ms Jessup said: “It’s incredibly exciting. The more we look, the more marks we’re finding.

“The sheer number and different types of marks are staggering.  It’s amazing to think that a building that has been studied for so long still holds so many secrets.”

‘Marian marks’ have also been discovered at the manor. These marks are shaped like overlapping letter ‘V’s, in an attempt to gain the protection of the Virgin Mary.

Meanwhile, ‘demon traps’ have also been found. These were believed to have the power to trap demons.

There are hundreds of different markings across the manor. In one particular attic space, which was once used as a servant’s bed chamber, there are more than 130 marks on the beams and door frames.

In the attic, there is a small drawbar which would have been used to lock the space from the inside.

During a renovation in the 1980s, several discoveries were made at the manor, including children’s shoes hidden under a staircase alongside pieces of cloth, iron objects and even animal parts.

A large amount of human hair was also uncovered in a fireplace, while a hare’s foot was also found, alongside a sheet of paper believed to have had charms written on it.

In the 1950s, a mummified cat was found in one of the walls.