Most have heard of the Bayeux Tapestry. A magnificent embroidered 70.5m long diorama depicting the events, led by William Duke of Normandy, leading to the conquest of England in 1066. Now there is another modern artwork to rival this, again with a Normandy connection. And it is going on display in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire.
The Longest Yarn is an 80-metre, three dimensional wool art diorama that depicts with historical accuracy D-Day and the Normandy Landings in June 1944. While its appearance has been cancelled at the American Library in Norwich’s Millennium Library, it may be viewed in Peterborough Cathedral from 4 March.
A poignant memorial
Shortly after midnight on the morning of 6 June, the Allied invasion began which eventually culminated in the liberation of France. 24,000 American, British and Canadian paratroopers dropped from the skies in an airborne assault, followed by the largest amphibious operation in history.
During the Second World War, home-knitting was a popular way to create items for warmth and knitting and crochet work was encouraged for the war effort. So it is fitting in commemorating D-Day, and honouring the fallen, that around 180 knitters and crocheters from across the world – including the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and France – worked together to craft The Longest Yarn.
The astonishing scenes are taken from original photos of the time, or from the film The Longest Day. Capture in wool and crochet the 3 dimensional panels depict the landing crafts, the soldiers, the beaches and sea waves. The skill of the creators is evident, bringing to life a day of bravery, sacrifice, and hope.
“The Longest Yarn commemorates the momentous events of a single day in 1944 that changed not only the course of World War II, but also irrevocably changed the lives of all those involved, serving military personnel and civilians” said Dr Rebecca Tillett, Associate Professor in American Literatures and Cultures at University of East Anglia. “As a piece of artwork, it also represents the skill and artistry of its creators.”
Piper Bill
Each scene represents a carefully researched historical event. Several scenes focus on real figures. One records Bill Millin, known as Piper Bill. A Canadian-born Scottish bagpiper, he was personal piper to Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, commander of the British 1 Special Service Brigade on D-Day.
During the landings on Sword Beach, and while under fire, Millin played his bagpipes. As he walked up and down the edge of the sea, he felt the sand shaking under his feet from mortar fire. His comrades fell around him and the dead bodies rolled in the surf, against his legs.
Miraculously this 21-year-old lad in full Highland rig survived, living to 2010. In the aftermath, Millin learned the German snipers had had him in their sights. Out of pity for this madman, they had not fired.
Peterborough Cathedral
The UK exhibition of the diorama has been timed to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. In March, it will go on display in Peterborough Cathedral, one of the finest Norman cathedrals in Europe.
Founded as a monastic community in 654 AD, the impressive cathedral became one of the most significant medieval abbeys in the country. Katharine of Aragon and Mary Queen of Scots were buried there. The cathedral will make a “beautiful and reflective setting” said a delighted Head of Operations Maria Elsey. She hopes that with its “fascinating blend of artistry and history” the diorama “will inspire and educate all who come to see it”.
The financially struggling cathedral is asking a £2.50 donation to view The Longest Yarn. The costs of maintaining a Grade I-listed masterpiece and paying the cathedral’s staff wages have soared. With dwindling donations, high fuel bills and increases in National Insurance for its equivalent of 25 full time employees, the cathedral faces financial ruin.
“Peterborough is not a wealthy city,” said Very Reverend Chris Dalliston, “it’s not a hotspot on the tourist trail, it’s not seen as glamorous. In recent years, footfall has not been high in the city centre. We’ve lost our big department stores. People have been badly affected by the cost of living crisis.”
Consequently, to try and address the financial shortfall, Dalliston launched an emergency appeal to raise £300,000 by the end of March to avoid the cathedral running out of money and closing its doors to become a part time cathedral.
The Longest Yarn will be on display between 4 March and 1 April. Tickets and booking details.
In connection with “The Longest Yarn” exhibition, Peterborough Cathedral will host the Cottesmore Military Wives Choir on 6 March at 7.30pm. The concert will commemorate all those who have served and continue to serve in the Armed Forces.
Upon leaving Peterborough, The Longest Yarn will travel to Cape May, New Jersey, in the United States.
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