An exhibition of 80 knitted scenes depicting Britain during wartime, titled “The Longest Yarn 2 - Britain at War”, will be on display at Welshpool Town Hall from September 1 to 30. The exhibition, created by volunteer knitters from across the UK, includes life-size knitted wartime personnel and follows the success of the original The Longest Yarn, which focused on D-Day and is now in Normandy.
A Unique Exhibition with Personal Connections
Tansy Forster, organiser of both The Longest Yarn and The Longest Yarn 2, explained that the second exhibition features memories and stories gathered by the knitters. “A huge number of people came to see the first Longest Yarn exhibition, which was all about D-Day. We couldn’t wait to create a second exhibition - The Longest Yarn 2, which depicts Britain during wartime, and features memories and stories gathered by our volunteer knitters,” she said.
Forster noted that while the scenes are informed by expert historians, many knitters have personal ties to the stories they portray. “Sometimes a relative, sometimes a place, which makes this a truly unique, heartfelt and historically important exhibition, made entirely by hand,” she added.
Organised by Local Enthusiast Alan Crowe
The Welshpool visit is organised by Alan Crowe, principal organiser of Welshpool’s annual 1940s weekend. Crowe is also leading a campaign for a lasting memorial to performers and musicians who boosted morale during World War II. He said, “When I saw that they were looking for venues for the Longest Yarn, I put Welshpool forward never thinking we would be lucky enough to get it. That was almost four years ago and now the opening of the exhibition in Welshpool Town Hall is just around the corner. Everyone who visits will be wowed by the exhibition and by visiting and donating will also be supporting a range of charities.”
Visiting Details and Charitable Support
The exhibition comprises 80 panels and life-size knitted wartime personnel, all created by hundreds of volunteers, some based in Wales, over many hours. Tickets are free but should be booked in advance, with donations encouraged. Donations will support veterans’ charities and the Ensa Memorial Appeal. School visits are welcome, and evening visits can be arranged.
For more information and to book, visit the official website. The exhibition will be open at Welshpool Town Hall from September 1 to 30.
