A WINDOW in Selby Abbey, which features one of the earliest representations of the Stars and Stripes, could prove a draw to American tourists visiting the country for the Olympics, it is hoped.

The Washington Window is a medieval window in the south clerestory of the Abbey’s Quire, and is thought to date back to about the 15th Century.

It features a shield which represents the arms of the Washington family – the ancestors of the first American president, George Washington – which comprises of three red stars, above two red stripes on a white background.

It is believed the shield is in the Abbey thanks to a financial benefaction supporting the work of the monastery at Selby from John Wessington, one of George Washington’s ancestors, who was Prior of Durham from 1416 to 1446, and the design is thought to be one of the oldest representations of the flag of the United States in the world.

It is hoped that it could prove enough of an attraction to lure American tourists to the town during the summer celebrations. The Reverend Canon John Weetman said: “We do get visitors from America coming to look at the window, as we’re on the American Heritage Trail.

“They don’t come looking for the architecture, but they always leave impressed by it.”

With visitors from around the world expected to descend on the country this summer, to celebrate the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, it is hoped that many staying in nearby towns or cities, including York, would take the time to seek out the historic Washington Window.

Rev Weetman said: “Certainly if there are more visitors from the states over this year, we look forward to welcoming them to the Abbey, to view this connection with their history and heritage.”