Why the Bayeux Tapestry will be displayed flat for the first time in London

• George Osborne, chairman of the British Museum, has revealed the Bayeux Tapestry will be displayed laid flat for conservation reasons, departing from its traditional hanging presentation.
• The 11th-century tapestry, which is 70 metres long and depicts the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, will open to the public at the British Museum in September.
• Visitors will be able to view the tapestry up close and from a balcony within a 40-minute ticket slot, with exhibition features designed to encourage movement.
• The exhibition has drawn controversy, including criticism from the late David Hockney over the tapestry's transport, while others called out the £33 ticket price.
• Demand for tickets has been exceptionally high, with five applicants for every initial ticket, and more batches are expected to be released.

IN FULL

George Osborne explains why Bayeux Tapestry won’t be hung on a wall in British Museum