A unique and moving exhibition has arrived at Sherborne Abbey just in time for Remembrance. The Longest Yarn is a touring exhibition which tells the story of Britain during the Second World War – told through 80 meticulously crafted knitted and crocheted scenes.
The installation, titled Britain at War, stretches an astonishing 80 metres in length across two 3D displays. It chronicles daily life from 3rd September 1939 to VE Day, 8th May 1945, with panels depicting rationing, evacuees, soldiers, the Blitz, wartime headlines and the eventual jubilation of peace.
Alongside the intricately-made panels stands a cast of life-sized, knitted characters – each representing key historical figures and veterans from Normandy on D-Day.
All the scenes have been designed with historical accuracy, under the guidance of expert historians, and each tells its own carefully chosen story.
The Sherborne Abbey exhibition was officially opened on 4th November by Rector Martin Lee and Major General John Stokoe, who was photographed with the popular figure of Piper Bill Millin – Lord Lovat’s Mad Piper of Sword Beach – who played his bagpipes as Lord Lovat’s commandos fought their way ashore on D-Day.
This powerful, imaginative exhibition offers a heartfelt tribute to those who lived through the war – a visual storytelling project as creative as it is commemorative.
The Longest Yarn runs at Sherborne Abbey until 27th November. Entry is free, but donations are warmly welcomed to support both the Abbey and veterans’ charities. Visitors who make a donation are invited to take an exhibition leaflet, available at the main door.
Sherborne Abbey is open to visitors Monday to Saturday, 8am–5pm, and Sundays, 11am–5pm, unless services are taking place.
More details can be found at: thelongestyarn.com
