A project to commemorate the opening of a New Zealand hospital will weave together a lasting legacy of the soldiers treated there.

The community tapestry project, involving individuals and groups of all ages, is in conjunction with Riverhouse Arts Centre, RC Sherriff and Elmbridge Council.

The tapestry will tell the story of the No 2 New Zealand General Hospital at the Mount Felix site, Walton, and is due to launch on April 25.

In 1915, the hospital was opened to accommodate Kiwi soldiers injured fighting in France during WWI. By the time it closed the hospital had seen more than 27,000 patients.

Sarah Lynch, part of the team behind the project, said: "We are so excited about this project and have already been overwhelmed by interest in it.

"The No 2 New Zealand Hospital is an important part of Walton's history and we have unearthed some fascinating personal stories that revolve around its wards. Their stories will be told in the Mount Felix Tapestry.

"This project will bring together many community groups to work together on a fun and creative venture with local and international reach. The completed work will be a fitting and poignant memorial to commemorate the centenary of the First World War."

The project will even trace a love story which began on the wards of the hospital. It will be completed and displayed a year later, on Anzac Day 2016.

Riverhouse Arts Centre is looking for individuals or teams to stitch the work, which will be broken down into 40 panels of 0.5sq m. The project will cost in the region of £13,500 and funding help is welcomed.

If you are interesting in taking part or have any knowledge of the hospital, email mountfelixstitch@gmail.com.