Every year, 6th June marks the anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in World War II when Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy. A lot is done each year to celebrate, and the Knitting Nannas have contributed a lot to the celebrations – read on to find out more.
The Longest Yarn Project
In Saltburn, a group known as the “Knitting Nannas” at Hazelgrove Court Care Home has been hard at work creating woollen soldiers and poppies – they’re very cute and very impressive. These creations are part of an ambitious project called The Longest Yarn, an 80-meter-long knitted tapestry designed to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day. It features 80 panels depicting scenes from the Normandy landings of the Second World War, with contributions coming from knitting enthusiasts around the globe.
Community and Contribution
The Knitting Nannas have been instrumental in producing these gorgeous little figures for the tapestry, which is an ideal commemorative piece of art. Each panel of the tapestry tells a story, weaving together the collective memory of those who lived through the war and those who have learned about it through history – that’s crucial because as time goes on, it can easily be forgotten.
Exhibition and Legacy
The completed tapestry can be seen in the historic Notre-Dame Church in Carentan-les-Marais, located in north-western France, until September 1st. The Knitting Nannas, through their meticulous work, have really added something special to the display, and it’s well worth a trip to see it if you’re able to go.
Or what about making your own little knitted soldiers and poppies? You could use knitting kits from a specialist like www.woolcouturecompany to get started and join in the fun.
Final Thoughts
D-Day is something that really ought to be remembered year after year, and when there’s a tangible (and memorable) way to make sure that happens, it becomes a lot easier to do. Well done to the Knitting Nannas and let’s all enjoy this wonderful tapestry for many years to come – maybe you can even become a part of it yourself.
