Aylsham writer pens new book

An Aylsham writer has published a historical novel based on the many metres of extraordinary embroidery created by a woman who was committed to Great Yarmouth workhouse as a lunatic in the late Victorian era.

After a long career as a criminal lawyer, Jenny Knights now volunteers at the National Centre for Writing, based at Dragon Hall in Norwich.
In spring 2024, this led to her taking part in the “Stitch Our Stories” project and the publication of her book, Miss Bulwer’s Embroideries.
“Participants were encouraged to use catch stitch and shown examples of this technique in Miss Lorina Bulwer’s scrolls where she sets out her grievances against her family, the citizens of Yarmouth and a Dr Pinching,” said Jenny.
“Before this I had never heard of Lorina Bulwer and was amazed that a supposed lunatic was allowed access to needles and scissors in that era.
“I discovered that sewing was permitted as an early form of occupational therapy and that some of the embroideries are preserved in the Norfolk Museums collection. As I read these Lorina and a fictional character Amy began to “speak” and demand that I write their stories of love and loss and betrayal in Victorian England.”

Jenny is happy to give talks to local groups about her research into the life of Miss Bulwer and others who sought solace in needlework when imprisoned.

She added: “Over my years working with repeat offenders and seeing the effects of locking people away without purposeful activities my aim is to raise funds for Fine Cell Work, a UK-based rehabilitation charity which aims to transform the lives of prisoners one stitch at a time.”

Miss Bulwer’s Embroideries is priced at £10 and is available directly from Jenny, by emailing jennyknightsauthor@gmail.com, or from the Itteringham Village Shop.

INSPIRATION: Jenny Knights and her new book.