A MAN has caused something of a stir by getting his book about needlework published. Former headteacher of Knights Templar School in Baldock, Vivian Crellin, has written Tokens of Love – a book about the origins, history and purposes of English needlework

A MAN has caused something of a stir by getting his book about needlework published.

Former headteacher of Knights Templar School in Baldock, Vivian Crellin, has written Tokens of Love - a book about the origins, history and purposes of English needlework samplers.

Mr Crellin, 81, of High Street, Baldock, said: "When I began I raised a few eyebrows because it's unusual for a man to write about needlework.

"But I have been interested in it and studying it for an awfully long time."

The illustrated book includes an explanation of samplers from charity, poor and orphan schools, as well as chapters on the needlework of men and Celtic traditions in the Isle of Man, Wales and Scotland.

Mr Crellin said: "I'm interested in identifying it, how it was done and why children stopped doing it."

Mr Crellin said he thinks there are a number of reasons why the tradition fizzled out, including the war and the invention of the sewing machine.

Published by The Sampler Guild, Tokens of Love is available from the publishers at a cost of £20 plus packing and postage.

Email linda@thesamplerguild

.co.uk or call 01628 785338.