A VILLAGE hall in Abbotts Ann came alive with a touch of historical grandeur as the Women's Institute (WI) unveiled a long-forgotten relic from the past for the Coronation celebrations earlier in May.

It was a ‘God Save the King’ banner from the 1930s.

The banner, which had remained hidden in the WI cupboard for more than seven decades, resurfaced during a clear-out and tidy-up conducted by the current committee last October.

The discovery coincided with a period of mourning following the passing of the Queen Elizabeth II.

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However, with the Coronation events on the horizon, the banner was granted a new lease on life, rekindling memories of bygone regal celebrations.

Measuring an impressive 164 inches in width and 26 inches in depth, the banner required some tender loving care to restore its former glory.

Fortunately, talented needleworker Jenny Barlow skillfully stabilised the banner, ensuring it would withstand the test of time.

Jenny, a former member of the institute, also crafted a custom-made bag to protect the banner, preventing any damage to its delicate fibers while in storage.

Curiously, the institute's records fail to shed light on the origins or acquisition of the banner.

WI members believe that it may have been used to commemorate either the Silver Jubilee of George V in 1935 or the Coronation of George VI in 1937, considering the WI's establishment in 1917.

The banner made its grand debut during the Coronation weekend.

Vice president and press secretary of Abbotts Ann WI, Sharon King said: “For the Coronation weekend it took centre stage and was proudly displayed in the marquee for two village events; a concert and bring-your-own picnic on the evening of May 6 and then again for a hog-roast ‘Big Lunch’ the following day."

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In an effort to piece together the missing chapters of the banner's history, the WI is appealing to the community for their support.

Anyone with photographs or information about the banner is requested to come forward and share their findings.

If you possess any pictures or details in your family archives that shed light on this fascinating artefact, please reach out to the WI, or contact the Advertiser.