HELP the history of Stevenage to take shape before your eyes. A specially commissioned tapestry masterminded by the borough council is being created to help celebrate 60 years of Stevenage as a new town. The huge wall hanging will trace the history of the

HELP the history of Stevenage to take shape before your eyes.

A specially commissioned tapestry masterminded by the borough council is being created to help celebrate 60 years of Stevenage as a new town.

The huge wall hanging will trace the history of the town from Roman times through to 1946 - when Britain's first new town was given official approval - and on to the present day.

Volunteers of all ages and abilities have been creating their own panels that will be stitched together to make the tapestry.

The whole work will start to take shape on Saturday (September 23) and the council wants the public's input. People can become a part of this historic project by helping to join the panels together.

Go along to the Community Arts Centre, Roaring Meg Retail Park, between 11am and 5pm to see the tapestry being put together and add your own stitch.

"It costs nothing to take part - your efforts will be recorded in a roll of honour and you will receive a commemorative card," said a council spokesman.

The official part of the day starts at 10.30am and will feature leader of the council Sharon Taylor and local MP Barbara Follett.

They and other dignitaries will each be adding a stitch to the tapestry.

If you can't make it on the day, the tapestry will then be on show for five weeks from Monday at Springfield House Community Centre in High Street for people to add their own stitch. For further information contact Jennifer Meek on 01438 880253.

The first part of the tapestry will be finished in time for November 11, the 60th anniversary of Stevenage as a new town.

Cllr Taylor, who is also chair of the diamond anniversary committee, said: "This is a great opportunity for residents to make a tangible and enduring contribution to the 60th anniversary celebrations. This unique project will leave a legacy for future generations to enjoy and celebrate.