Banner Restoration Group

The Church possesses a number of very old and beautiful banners, images of which can be viewed on this web site. 


Photographs of the Banners

Jacqueline Hyman, a textile restoration expert, has examined the banners and we are waiting for her detailed report.  Owing to family circumstances, this is taking longer than expected.  She believes that a team of embroiderers supervised by her could undertake the work of restoration. This would be a long-term project taking a number of years.  We have now a list of ladies from the parish and the local Embroiderers’ Guild who would be willing to form a team to work on the restoration, and also two local embroidery teachers whom we can consult and who are willing to advise on techniques etc.  The banners have been laid flat on a floor in the Presbytery to minimise further damage.

Barbara Ryan has attended a course on textile restoration given by Jacqueline, who recommends that when we are ready she will come to the parish and run a day’s workshop tailored to our specific needs. Barbara has also joined the Blackburn Diocese Ecclesiastical Embroidery Group, and is attending a weekend course on Gold Work at Alston Hall College.  We trust that this will enhance her knowledge of the techniques involved.

The question remains of how the banners will be displayed.  To hang them in the church requires the restoration to be to a much higher standard than if they were to be mounted and displayed behind glass: hanging them would involve more work to strengthen the fragile fabric.  Photographs of the reverse side could be taken and shown next to the banner.  This is a matter for the parish as a whole to discuss.  Jacqueline is of the opinion that either method is possible, but the second would certainly be easier.  The next step is to get everyone who has volunteered together for a meeting.

If you feel you can contribute in any way to this work, then please contact us.

 

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