Tapestry mural unveiled at Battle to mark 1066 milestone
Last Thursday (April 7), an 18-metre long Bayeux Tapestry full-colour laminate mural was officially opened by Battle mayor Cllr Margaret Kiloh and David Statham, managing director of Southeastern, in front of 40 members of the community.
David Statham had made a special journey to Battle for the occasion, escorted on the train by Battle’s own Saxon warrior, in full regalia, who helped to set the scene for this very special event.
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Hide AdThe mural, which was almost two years in the making, is composed of 6 x 3 metre colour laminate panels, with captions, giving a snapshot of how the most famous battle in English history evolved between Harold, King of England and William, Duke of Normandy on October 14, 1066.
The images had been sourced from the Charles Stothard prints which are in the care of the Battle Museum of Local History.
Following the ribbon-cutting, David Statham spoke about Battle’s proud history and the importance of its relationship with the railway.
Robert Emeleus, chairman of the museum, spoke on behalf of Battle’s involvement with the project and the important legacy it would give to residents and visitors.
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Hide AdYolanda Laybourne, who co-ordinated the project, thanked Battle Museum and all those who had contributed, and presented commemorative scrolls to some of the key players.
Guests were then invited to view the new community tapestry, inspired and designed by Battle artist Tina Greene for the 950th Anniversary year, and to contribute their own stitch.
Robert Emeleus added: “As well as providing a special welcome for visitors to Battle, this extraordinary mural also heralds the start of a season of special events in Battle to commemorate the 950th Anniversary of the Battle of Hastings.” *For more pictures, see pages 48 and 49.