Wartime Longest Yarn display returns to cathedral

An 80-metre (262ft) knitted display depicting scenes from World War Two will return to Peterborough Cathedral in the summer.

The Longest Yarn II: Britain at War, features 80 hand-crafted panels of moments from wartime Britain - from the beginning of the conflict in 1939 to VE Day in 1945.

Knitted scenes will combine major historical events and everyday experiences on the home front, including the King's speech, the evacuation of children, D-Day and the work of organisations such as the Women's Land Army.

The exhibition follows the popularity of last year's original Longest Yarn display, which attracted hundreds of visitors.

The Longest Yarn display also includes eight life-size figures - known as "The Gang" - representing wartime roles such as a Land Girl and a Spitfire pilot, designed to highlight the human stories behind the conflict and the contribution of ordinary people.

The Dean of Peterborough, Chris Dalliston, said: "The amazing popularity of The Longest Yarn was a testimony to the creativity and skill of the many extraordinary people involved in its creation, as well as the ways in which it honoured those men and women whose service and sacrifice in time of war it commemorated."

Organisers say the sequel aims to encourage reflection among families, school groups and community organisations, using craft to explore themes of resilience, service and shared memory.

They also expect the event to bring additional visitors into the city, supporting local businesses and reinforcing Peterborough's growing reputation as a cultural destination.

A cathedral spokesperson said: "The exhibition offers a powerful and personal way to reflect on the lives of those who lived through the war.

"It connects history, creativity and remembrance in a way that resonates with all generations."

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