Seeking advice from local specialists and friends
We took advice from local specialists and friends (who are still friends!):
- Roger Hill helped to structure the initial historical content that we obtained from individuals, internet research, books and the Parish/Town/District Councils.
- Wally King advised on framing techniques and suggested local framing specialists. We spoke to a few local companies and selected Phoenix Frames, where Guy Venables has given us invaluable support and advice.
- Chris Guest unwittingly mentioned that she was making a wedding dress and loved sewing of every sort, so was immediately press-ganged into action.
- We ventured further afield and visited the Maldon Embroidery, meeting with some of the original makers who shared their experience and gave us very useful tips.
- Corina Seal and Carol Apps got us started with some initial drawings that enabled us to more easily articulate the vision, whilst Graham Larwood provided his drawings from a previous project about the Battle of Assandun.
Corina’s drawing gave us focus… but also raised the question of how to ensure historical accuracy
![](http://www.rochfordtown.com/images/siteimages/large_Corina - Saxons sketch.jpg)
Graham’s drawings added historical context, whilst Carol sketched local landmarks
![](http://www.rochfordtown.com/images/siteimages/small_1016 centenary - Canute.jpg) |
![](http://www.rochfordtown.com/images/siteimages/small_1016 centenary - Ironside - low res.jpg) |
![](http://www.rochfordtown.com/images/siteimages/large_P10 - Carol - Stambridge Mill.jpg) |