THE story of a Polish war hero buried in Leominster has been published, highlighting his role in regaining part of his capital city from the Russians.

A newly-produced booklet tells the story of Severin Dziewicki, born in Poland in 1812, who while still a teenager took part in the Polish resistance against Russia, which came to a head with the November Uprising of 1830-31.

He was one of 10 cadets who stormed a Russian arsenal and regained control of a part of Warsaw.

In the end, the uprising was suppressed and Dziewicki was forced to leave his homeland.

After being granted sanctuary in Britain, he eventually settled in Herefordshire where he became a teacher, married and fathered five children.

Following his death in 1862, his body was buried in the Leominster Priory churchyard.

The booklet on his extraordinary life has been created in collaboration between Leominster Museum and local author Joe Cocker, who heard of Dziewicki through a chance remark in a pub and traced his story back to Poland.

The museum said the story included revolution, persecution, imprisonment, love and religious quarrels.

Malcolm Mason, of Leominster Museum said: “I am delighted the museum was able to help Joe bring this interesting story to a wider audience.

“This is one of a series of booklets the museum is producing on notable Leominster people. The booklets are available from the museum and the Tourist Information Centre on Corn Square.”

For more information visit www.leominstermuseum.org.uk