Acclaimed exhibition of 80 knitted wartime scenes, visited and applauded by thousands, heads to Blackburn Cathedral as it begins its centenary celebrations

Volunteer knitters from across the UK have created a stunning set of 80 scenes “The Longest Yarn 2 – Britain at War”, which depicts scenes of Britain during wartime using yarn. It builds on the international success of The Longest Yarn, an exhibition of knitted scenes from D-Day, which following a tour of the UK is now in the USA.

Comprising 80 panels, and a number of life-size knitted wartime personnel, this incredible exhibition will be at Blackburn Cathedral from Wednesday 7th January to Saturday 7th February, the first time it has visited the North West.

Visitors are encouraged to come and see the intricate work that has gone into the storytelling panels, all created by hundreds of volunteer knitters, over many, many hours.

Founder of The Longest Yarn, Tansy Forster, explained how the Britain at War exhibition came about:

“Building on the success of our first exhibition, The Longest Yarn, which focussed on D-Day, we couldn’t wait to create a second exhibition – Britain at War, which depicts Britain during wartime, and features memories and stories gathered by our volunteer knitters.

The knitted scenes are informed by guidance from expert historians, but often the knitter has a personal connection with the story they have chosen to portray – sometimes a relative who served in WW2, sometimes a place which held memories of the war years, which makes this a truly unique, heartfelt and historically important exhibition, made entirely by hand.”

Attracting thousands of visitors as it tours the UK, the exhibition is now coming to Blackburn Cathedral, where it can be seen from 7th January to 7th February.

Speaking ahead of the exhibition Interim Dean of Blackburn, The Revd Canon Andrew Horsfall said:

“We are so excited to be hosting The Longest Yarn II - Britain at War. It is a stunning portrayal of life in Britain, and we look forward to welcoming as many guests as possible to come and view this incredible exhibition.”

“2026 is our centenary year and we are delighted to be launching our celebrations with such a poignant exhibition. We hope the intricate panels that detail life in Britain during the War will resonate with guests and we warmly encourage people to come and see this unique exhibition”.

“This exhibition has really grabbed people’s attention wherever it has been displayed and we’re delighted to be the venue chosen to host it for the first time in the North West of England.”

The Longest Yarn 2 exhibition can be seen at Blackburn Cathedral, from 7th January, with entry by donation. Donations will be divided between the Cathedral, The Longest Yarn and veterans charities. A full guidebook accompanying the exhibition is available to buy at the Cathedral or on online at www.thelongestyarn.com

Packed with photos, it shares the in-depth stories behind the panels and introduces the incredible crafters who have brought the project to life.

For more information visit blackburncathedral.com/yarn