Export ban on 19th century schoolgirl's depiction of Menai Suspension Bridge

A temporary export ban has been placed on an historic needlework sampler showing the Menai Suspension Bridge. It was crafted by 11-year-old schoolgirl in the 19th century called Mary Anne Hughes.

The export ban has been imposed to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the piece of Welsh heritage. A Department for Culture, Media and Sport statement said: "The needlework, which has been valued at £14,564, depicts the new bridge and boats crossing the Menai strait.

"It was stitched by local school girl Mary Anne Hughes in the 1800s to mark the opening of the suspension bridge." Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: "The opening of the Menai suspension bridge was a true feat of British engineering, which has had long lasting benefits to local heritage as well as boosting tourism and the North Wales economy.

READ MORE:The North Wales streets getting a People's Postcode Lottery payout

READ MORE:Police concerns over three missing girls

“Mary’s wonderful needlework reflects the importance of the bridge and is a telling reminder that every child, if given the right access to the arts, can contribute to the world around them. I hope a UK buyer can be found so this artwork can be used to inspire children to embrace their creativity and love their local area.”

The RCEWA (Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest) Committee found the needlework met criteria "for its outstanding connection with the country's history and national life and its outstanding significance to the study of social history within this area of Wales, and the importance of needlework within the education of young girls".

Committee member Mark Hallett said: “Mary Anne Hughes’ needlework picture of Menai Bridge in Anglesey, stitched when she was just 11 years old, is not only a testament to her individual skill and prodigious powers of concentration. It is also a window into the world of early nineteenth century working class education and female accomplishment in Britain, giving us a glimpse of a culture that has been largely lost to us, and for which there are far too few traces.

"This rare, modest treasure is of enduring interest and value, and thoroughly deserves to be saved for the nation.” The Department for Culture, Media and Sport said a decision on the export licence application will be deferred until January 7 next year.

At the end of the period, the owners will have 15 business days to consider any offers to purchase the sampler. A second deferral period will then commence following the signing of an option agreement, and will last for three months.

Designed by renowned engineer Thomas Telford, the Menai Suspension Bridge connects Anglesey to mainland Wales. Opening in 1826, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time and cut the journey time to Holyhead, boosting travel and tourism to the area while benefiting local industries.

You can sign up for all the latest court stories here

Find out what's happening near you