The Town Hall opened its doors this week for the grand unveiling of the ‘Behind Closed Doors’ exhibition. The immersive living history exhibition hosted by Congleton Town Council depicts an imagined medieval Congleton in 1272.
The medieval masterpiece, a model village of Congleton has been created by local volunteer Jenny Unsworth. The three-dimensional diorama is a miniature representation of Congleton in 1272. Featuring Dane Bridge and more than thirty handmade buildings and houses full of busy tradespeople and artifacts.
Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Margaret Gartside said: “It was wonderful to see the exhibition come to fruition at a preview event on Monday evening. Jenny’s vision, talent and passion for Congleton is outstanding. Over the past 18 months hundreds of hours have been given up by Jenny and her team of volunteers fashioning houses and models for the diorama. On behalf of the town council, I would like to thank Jenny and her husband John for commissioning and crafting the fantastic exhibition for residents and visitors to enjoy as part of the town’s 750th Charter year celebrations.”
The town council is encouraging members of the public to take a tour of the exhibition. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a closer look at the models, read the display boards, meet the makers, ask questions and marvel at what has been created. Places are still available at the ticketed event on Friday 8 July from 7pm – 8.30pm with talks by Jenny Unsworth and Dr David Roffe explaining more about the charter and life in Congleton. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2 for children. The price includes a complimentary drink on arrival. Tickets are available from the Congleton Information Centre in the Town Hall. The exhibition concludes on Saturday 10 July with public viewing from 10am-2pm. Admission is free of charge.
Around 400 school children will visit the exhibition this week. The children will be greeted by costumed characters and have the opportunity to participate in interactive workshop to give them a feel for live in Congleton 750 years ago. As part of the crime and punishment workshop some of them formed a jury sending their classmates and teacher to the stocks!
For more information contact Congleton Town Council on: 01260 270350 or see: www.congleton750.org
