A FORMER Tonbridge MP presented a replica section of the Bayeux Tapestry to the borough council in appreciation for the regeneration achieved at the Castle over the past four decades.
Sir John Stanley, who was the town’s MP for over 40 years, donated the piece along with his wife Lady Elizabeth Stanley. It will hang in the Castle’s Great Hall.
Entitled ‘Embarquement’, it shows soldiers embarking on a ship bound for the invasion of England by William the Conqueror in 1066.
More than 70 metres long, the original tapestry is on display in Bayeux, Normandy, France. It tells the story, in hand-woven tapestry pictures, of the Duke of Normandy’s conquest of England in the 11th Century. Twelve Year Six pupils from The Slade School were educated on the artwork’s history.
“Without the Council’s vision and determination, Tonbridge Castle would have remained just a ruin as it was when I first became MP in 1974.
“Tonbridge Castle is now one of the great historic castles in Britain for children and adults to visit. I hope that ‘Embarquement’ will add to their interest and enjoyment for many years to come,” said Sir John.
