Volunteers near end of protest tapestry task

The Fulford Tapestry Group was formed in York during the campaign against a 700-home development of land around Germany Beck – proposals which are currently on hold – which protesters claimed was the site of the Battle of Fulford that took place on September 20, 1066.

Inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, the group decided to start embroidering the history of the battle, when the invading Viking army, led by Harald Hardrada, triumphed over the English forces in a brutal victory seen as crucial in the run-up to the Battle of Hastings and William the Conqueror ultimately being crowned King of England.

Now five years on, the 15ft tapestry has passed through dozens of hands and is currently being worked on at the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, in York, where it is nearly complete.

“A few years ago it had whittled down to only two people working on it”, said group member Mary Ann Dearlove.

“But at the moment there are six of us.In the last two years we have done a huge amount of work on it and we are about 85 per cent there,

“It has certainly become a labour of love.

“The site is of such massive historical importance and it is important to be telling that story.”

Lauren Marshall, manager at the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, said: “It is looking really wonderful and is incredibly vivid and detailed.”

The group meet at the hall every Wednesday between 10am and 2pm and more volunteers are welcome.