National Civil War Centre issues ‘Purl to arms’ call to Newark and Sherwood's knitters

The National Civil War Centre has issued a ‘purl to arms’ for crafty cavaliers.

It’s looking for adult volunteers to help with the culmination of a two-year project at its Battlefield Bee event on Saturday.

Knit A Battlefield was launched in the first lockdown as a way to reach out to those who felt isolated and offer them chance to be part of a community project remotely.

Participants knitted fields, soldiers and horses, which have been sent in, ready to be sewn together to form a giant knitted battlefield in the centre’s Tudor Hall.

Interested crafters are invited to drop in at any time between 10am and 4pm to help piece the battlefield together in a socially-distanced sewing bee.

Those taking part will need only basic sewing skills, and materials and tuition will be provided.

Sarah Clarke, team leader for learning and participation, said: “It was so heartwarming throughout the lockdowns to receive beautifully-crafted pieces from our amazing knitters.I’m so excited to see it all come together and it’s wonderful that we’re now able to finish this project, which started in isolation, together in the stunning Tudor Hall."

The event is timed to coincide with Family Saturday at the museum, which will feature family-friendly tours, storytime for young children and Battlefield Bee-inspired art activities for all the family as well as the centre’s Quiet Hour from 3pm to 5pm, helping children and young people with autism or additional requirements to enjoy the museum.

Battlefield Bee helpers receive free access to all Family Saturday events and admission to the museum’s galleries on the day.

To get involved, contact civilwarlearning@nsdc.info