Tapestry to illustrate CI links

ISLANDERS are being asked to embroider in aid of a community project.

Keen stitcher Kate Russell has come up with the idea of producing a 10ft finale to the Bayeux Tapestry, complete with Channel Islands links. Kate has enlisted the help of Pauline Black to help with the initial drawings and hopes locals will get involved with the stitching.

Kate said the finished tapestry would illustrate when the Channel Islands became British.

'We will include a scene of William dining on the battlefield at the end of the battle. He was drinking Champagne and eating with the bodies all around him,' she said.

'We also have a few Channel Islands references to put in. There is a chap featured from Jersey, Robert Duce, and although he wasn't around at the time of the battle, it is thought his grandfather could have fought at the Battle of Hastings.'

The States has donated £300 to help produce the tapestry, which is likely to be hung at the museum and hospital.

Kate is planning to produce it at Alderney Library, where locals will be invited to stitch.

'The aim is that there will always be somebody there who can help someone put a stitch in the fabric,' said Kate. 'It is very simple embroidery - people will be on hand to help and instructions will be provided.'

The stitching will start once Pauline has completed the drawings. To date, about 4ft of artwork has been done.

'I think the Bayeux Tapestry is fascinating,' said Pauline.

'It's been very interesting doing more research and putting it down on paper.'

Expert Jane Bliss, who has Alderney connections, is helping with the tapestry, while Kate is using Jan Messent's work as a guide.

l Anyone who would like to donate or help with the project should call Kate on 823366.

A team of young footballers will compete in Guernsey after attracting several sponsors and raising money from a bed push round the island.

Coach Kevin Wood recently made an appeal for support and some kind-hearted businesses and local individuals chipped in, including Ace Parts, Highland Titles, Sam Chadwick and Jackie Main. The Rotary Club of Alderney also pledged support.

Twelve boys also took part in a sponsored bed push at the weekend and raised an extra £226.

'The bed push went very well. We had good weather for it and I think all the boys enjoyed it,' said Kevin.

'We've also got some more money to come in as some of the boys are still collecting sponsorship money.'

Kevin said he was pleased with the boys' efforts.

'They all did very well. The push took about two hours and we went all round the island, including a few little detours.

'The boys started playing football as soon as they got back, so they clearly had a lot of energy.'

Cash raised from the bed push will pay for flights and accommodation so that the players can compete at the annual BWCI Mini Soccer Festival in Guernsey. The seven-a-side event attracts top teams from across the UK, including Fulham and Glasgow Rangers, as well as leading Channel Islands sides.

'It's a great tournament and a really good experience for the boys, as they get to play against quality players and mix with different teams, which they don't usually get the chance to do.'

Ten boys will compete at the tournament as St Anne's School. The event runs over the weekend of 23 July.

l Anyone interested in supporting the team should contact Kevin on 823840.