Fascinating Facts – ‘The Test Valley Tapestry’
The Test Valley Tapestry was the brainchild of the late Mr Laurie Porter, former Mayor of Andover Borough, who, as Test Valley Borough Mayor in 1983, conceived the idea that the natural beauty and rich and varied history of the area should be portrayed and linked in some way. This major work of historical significance resulted in 19 separate panels that covered 75 of the Borough’s hamlets, villages, parishes and towns. It took almost 10 years to complete an involved about 1500 local people of all ages. The 'tapestries' (technically they are embroideries, but alliteration and historical precedent carry the day) are as rich and varied as the area they depict, with the common thread of the Test and its tributaries running through them. All embrace an abundance of wild-life and a pageant of history, but their principal features are the buildings and beauty spots which populate the valley. In addition, however, local characters can be found walking their dogs, Army Air Corps helicopters from Middle Wallop buzz the skies along with the ghosts of aircraft past; anglers try their luck in the Test, whilst children fish the village pond, or dance round the Maypole. But these are just a few examples from a wealth of detail which awaits close inspection and all the panels bear tribute to the painstaking work of the many – over 300 people contributed to the Somborne piece – or the few. The Tapestry is located in the Conference Suite at Beech Hurst, Weyhill Road, Andover, and can be viewed by prior appointment. Reference books and postcards are also available to purchase. For further information please visit the arts and heritage section of the Council’s website or contact Amy Redfern, Leisure Services, Beech Hurst, Weyhill Road, Andover, SP10 3AJ Tel 01264 368842 Email leisure@testvalley.gov.uk