A unique part of London’s history which had mysteriously disappeared after 150 years on its streets has returned.

The Grade II listed Porters’ Rest, a wooden bench on two legs, had sat at the western end of Piccadilly, near the Bomber Command memorial, disappeared without explanation last year.

Now, Westminster Council has provided a replica of a unique piece of Victorian London street furniture for future generations to enjoy.

It had originally been installed in 1861 alongside a plaque which explained that it was there for ‘the benefit of porters and others carrying burdens’. It was commissioned at the suggestion of Robert Aglionby Slaney, the then Shrewsbury MP.

The original was believed to be the last of its kind in the capital, and its sudden disappearance was labelled a ‘heritage crime’ by the local historian who noticed it missing.

The original Grade II listed Porters' Rest on Piccadilly had mysteriously disappeared
The Grade II listed Porters Rest on Piccadilly which has mysteriously disappeared

Among those at the unveiling on May 12, near Green Park, were descendants of the Shrewsbury MP.

Deputy leader of the council Robert Davis MBE said: “Westminster City Council is proud to play its part in recognising a fascinating part of our city of heritage, by reinstating this piece of London’s past for residents and visitors to enjoy.

"It is one of the most unique artefacts found in Westminster, contributing to the rich tapestry of the city’s history.

“I am delighted that descendants of R.A. Slaney MP, who represented the borough of Shrewsbury in Parliament for two decades, have joined us to unveil a new plaque and mark their ancestor’s contribution to our shared history.”

Simon Kenyon-Slaney, great-great grandson of Mr Slaney MP said: “I am delighted the Porters’ Rest has been restored by Westminster City Council, as are all my fellow descendants.

“Now that it stands before the magnificent new Bomber Command Memorial I hope it may be noticed and appreciated by more visitors than ever imaged by my great-great grandfather.”

A Porters’ Rest was once a common sight throughout London and used to give porters a break from carrying large and heavy objects and luggage.

After noticing its disappearance, Peter Berthound, who leads private walking tours around the capital, said: “This is the last one left in London. It’s not one of the great sights of London, but it is one of those little details that people really like. It’s some kind of continuity with the past.

“It’s technically a heritage crime to touch and remove it.”