Historic tapestry goes on display

A massive tapestry detailing the history of Cannock Chase has been officially unveiled by Cannock MP Tony Wright and will hang permanently in the council's civic suite.

Dignatries and over 100 guests crowded into a corridor at the district council's offices on Beecroft Road for the official unveiling a dedicating of the 11ftx6ft artwork. The tapestry, which has been created by members of the Chadsmoor Tapestry Group, has taken a dedicated team of 16 volunteers six years to complete at a cost of £20,000.

The group attended a ceremony at the council offices where they formally handed it over to Cannock Chase Council chairman Councillor Ray Easton as a gift to the people of Cannock.

The volunteers worked an average of 10 hours a week since 2001 to finish the stunning piece which will now be permanently displayed in a special glazed cabinet.

Among the guests at the unveiling were vice-chairman of Chase Art for Public Spaces (CHAPS) Jack Sunley and a representative from the Royal School of Needlework.

A ribbon was cut with music provided by Great Wyrley Townswomen's Guild. Local people can look at the tapestry on special viewing days throughout this week from 10am and 12pm.

The tapestry was created after Tony Wright MP and the then town centre manager Moira Bertoni asked the group to produce something for the community.

The tapestry features images of Cannock past and present and the flora and fauna of Cannock Chase.

The group funded the estimated £9,000 cost of the fabrics for the embroidery itself over the years and a £9,000 lottery grant was secured to pay for the cabinet, launch and marketing costs. Chadsmoor Tapestry Group meets once a week at Chadsmoor Methodist Church.

Councillor Ray Easton, chairman of the district council, said: "It is an enormous credit to the town and surrounding area that we have inspired such a unique and priceless work of art."