Almost 7000 Visit the 'Other' Hastings Embroidery

While thousands vyed for tickets to see the Bayeux Tapestry in the British Museum the Hastings Embroidery, a 243 foot long hand stitched art work attracted much interest as it was displayed in the town for 9 weeks. The embroidery was commissioned in the 1960s to mark 900 years since the Battle of Hastings.

Visitors included the son of Group Captain Ralph Ward who originally commissioned the embroidery and one of the apprentice embroiderers who worked on it in the 1960. Many people travelled from across the country and some from across the world to come and enjoy it. Many visitors had seen it on display in the 1960s. 

Cllr Julia Hilton, deputy leader of the council, said: “I’m pleased to hear how many people visited and enjoyed the embroidery. It has been lovely to hear all the positive comments, particularly the strong wish to see it permanently displayed and we are exploring this as an ambition. 

“While the Hastings Embroidery is no longer on display, you can continue to enjoy the Norman banner trail through the town, and there are more events coming in the next few months as we celebrate the Year of the Normans.” 

Some of the public comments included: 

"The exhibition is a stunning representation of nearly 1,000 years of history. I learnt more information than the Bayeux Tapestry" 

"An amazing piece of historic creative art – so informative and impressive" 

"The preparation, design and artist has created a wonderful story of the UK for future generations." 

"What a fantastic history depiction. So colourful and beautifully embroidered. So pleased to have to get see this" 

"Really enjoyed seeing all the detail and additions such as the keys and where some of the fabric originated. Lovely exhibition." 

"A great record through time, demonstrating an excellent range of techniques to illustrate momentous occasions." 

Many of the comments were from people who had seen the display many years ago as children and were pleased to have seen it again, some with their own children or grandchildren. 

If you missed out on visiting the exhibition in person, you can view the panels and interpretation information on the HMAG website.