DID a tiger moth really fly under the Forth Bridge during the Second World War? That’s one of the tales woven into a new history project that’s set to meet the public today.

According to one of the ­volunteers taking part in the Stitches in Time ­project, part of Inverkeithing ­Heritage Regeneration work, it’s an untold part of the area’s past. ­Family ­members tell of an uncle who’d achieved the feat for a bet.

It’s just one of the colourful local stories that have been turned into textile artworks in a project that taps into the area’s historic linen trade. Records show flax was imported to the Fife town as far back as the 1600s, with Daniel Defoe remarking on its booming linen manufacture in the 18th century.

Nikkita Morgan, the artist leading Stitches in Time, secured some of the last linen produced at Peter Greig & Co in nearby Kirkcaldy before its ­closure this spring for use by the v­olunteers, who have used it to create colourful canvases in needlework.

People of all ages have taken part, recreating historic scenes, making bold patterns and forming fabric boats that remind onlookers of its seafaring links.

The work goes on show today at the local Civic Centre for Doors Open Day. Morgan will demonstrate the skills used and give away kits for people to try at home. The project has been funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, Fife Council and Fife Historic Buildings Trust.

Emma Griffiths of Inverkeithing Heritage Regeneration said: “The ­tiger moth is a story that wasn’t ever captured in photographs because it was illegal. The stories we are managing to get and the stitching and the community have all been fantastic.”