Mosaic depicts Viking king's attempt to turn tide

The artwork being installed on the wall of the new café at Whitton Gardens depicts King Canute commanding a tide to stop

The legend of a Viking king's attempt to turn back the tide has been depicted in a mosaic.

King Canute (also known as Cnut) ruled England between 1016 -1035 and allegedly tried and failed to stop the tidal bore at the River Trent in Gainsborough.

The artwork was chosen by residents and installed at a cafe in Whitton Gardens.

West Lindsey District Council's economic growth team leader, Wendy Osgodby, said: "I think people are really proud of Gainsborough's history. This was about as many people taking part in it as possible."

Lincoln mosaic artist Sarah Graves said the reaction from passers-by had been "lovely"

A tidal bore pushes against the current, creating a large wave. Legend has it that Canute tried to stop it to illustrate his piety, rather than his power as king.

The authority said 750 people took part in the project designed and co-produced by artist Sarah Graves from Mary Mary Mosaics.

She said the reaction from passers-by had been "lovely" and had encouraged people to stop and chat.

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According to the authority, 750 people took part in the project

Gainsborough is believed to have been declared the capital of England when Canute's father, Sweyn Forkbeard was declared king of the country on Christmas Day 1013.

Ms Osgodby said residents voted on what the mosaic could include and helped place the tiles during the two-day installation.

St George's Church of England Community Primary School, The Gainsborough Academy and Aegir Specialist Academy were also involved.

"My aspiration is for young people to be proud of taking part in the mosaic and to ignite their interest in the history and the heritage of Gainsborough," added Ms Osgodby.

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