Historic artefacts found in flood risk defence scheme dig

The heritage event ‘Threads Through Time’ will feature the finds and will explain techniques used by archaeologists working as part of the Kendal Flood Scheme.   

The free, public event, on Saturday, June 17, will include the unveiling of a new wool tapestry created by local volunteers with artist Lana Grindley.  

Stephen Dean, a senior archaeologist from the Environment Agency, said: "A number of excavations have been undertaken within the immediate vicinity of Kendal Parish Church, Parish Hall and outside the Waterside Flats, which have unearthed evidence which opens a small window into Kendal’s past.    

Dye bottles found at Waterside (Image: Environment Agency)

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"It is important that all archaeological discoveries revealed during excavation works are investigated, logged, and preserved ahead of any construction of the new flood defences and that this evidence and the stories they help to create are shared with the local community.”   

Community artist Lara Grindley said: "I was commissioned by the Environment Agency to celebrate the history and wool trade heritage of Kendal and its river. I feel that this community fibre tapestry does just that. The workshops were open to people of all abilities, and it has been the community who have created this new tapestry about their town.  

“I will be running free arts activities throughout the heritage event at the Parish Church for anyone who would like to make their own piece of artwork.”  

From 11am until 4pm there will be free workshops and two guided walks, and from 6pm-9pm lectures in the Parish Church. Booking is essential for the free placed to join the walks and lectures.  

Details of how to book and more information about the ‘Threads through time’ heritage event can be found on the Kendal Flood Hub  www.thefloodhub.co.uk/kendal/