There has been a lot of interest recently in the Hastings Embroidery, and whether it could be put back on display during this 950th anniversary year of the Battle of Hastings.
The embroidery was made in 1966, during the 900th anniversary year, and depicts the history of Hastings during those 900 years.
The embroidery was put into climate-controlled storage in London over ten years ago, because ‘expert’ opinion suggested that it was deteriorating and could not remain on display unless it was housed in very expensive climate-controlled cabinets.
However, two panels have remained on display in the Town Hall throughout that period, and have shown no sign of significant deterioration.
So it would seem to be better to have it where it can be seen, even if it is slowly deteriorating, rather than keeping it in perfect condition in storage where no-one can ever see it.
The biggest problem now with bringing the embroidery back is finding the space to accommodate it – the whole thing is 263 feet long.
Unfortunately, there’s no council building big enough.
However, if any other group, organisation or business in Hastings could find somewhere, the council would be happy to loan it to them free, subject to them displaying it securely, insuring it, and of course, making it accessible for public view.
It would be good to have the embroidery back in Hastings, as it hasn’t been seen by anyone in its entirety for a long time, and could be of interest to local people and visitors alike during this anniversary year.
So if anyone is interested in arranging to display it, has access to a suitable space, and is able to make it available for public view, please let me know.
Peter Chowney
Leader
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