THERE is a rare opportunity to tour an historic Stroud building next weekend.
On Sunday, May 14, residents are invited to tour Ebley Mill, the offices of the Stroud District Council but formerly one of the mills of Marling and Evans.
There will also be a small exhibition of Marling & Evans products.
The main part of the mill is over 200 years old with another block being built after a fire in 1859 while the Council Chamber is modern.
In 1851 Samuel Marling won the Gold Medal at the Great Exhibition for his black woollen broadcloth and went on to sell cloth and win medals across the world.
In the 1960s the firm supplied to not just Marks & Spencer and Aquascutum but also Christian Dior and Mary Quant.
It also led the way introducing synthetics including fireproof clothing for racing car drivers, car safety belts, insulation for Concorde and many other uses.
The hourly tours are free but must be booked on www.stroudtextiletrust.org.uk.
If in difficulty ring 01453 766273.
This event is part of the SPAB Mills Open Weekend and the Cotswold Canals Spring Fair.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here