D-Day embroidery inspires community art project

The embroidery has 34 separate panels and shows the events of June 1944 that led to the end of World War Two

People are being invited to take part in a project to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the famous Overlord Embroidery.

Designed by British artist Sandra Lawrence and commissioned by Lord Dulverton, it depicts D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in 34 hand-stitched panels.

The 83m (272ft) artwork is one of the main highlights of The D-Day Story museum in Portsmouth and was visited by Queen Elizabeth in April 2009.

Visitors can now help decorate a large cloth in the style of the embroidery as part of a project from Thursday until Sunday.

Entitled Couching Liberty, it is a collaboration between the University of Portsmouth, The D-Day Story and Stitch School and is open to the wider community, including schools and local groups.

Melanie Bowles, from Stitch School, will be available to teach basic embroidery skills during the free drop-in sessions, although standard museum admission fees apply for entry to the exhibits.

Queen Elizabeth II met D-Day veterans Frank Rosier and Eddie Wallace when she visited the museum in 2009

Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “This is another great opportunity for residents to get involved in learning more about the history of D-Day, whilst creating something exciting.

"Activities like this are important in sharing the true scale of the events that took place in June 1944 with all age groups. I look forward to seeing what is created.”