The Bayeux Tapestry has begun its journey to its temporary home in the British Museum, but has only moved the first few hundred yards, reports The Sunday Times.
In a secret operation, the priceless 11th-century work depicting the Norman Conquest in 1066 was removed on Friday from the purpose-built museum where it has been on display since 1983.
It was then said to have been placed in the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History, a quarter of a mile across town, where it will be stored for the next few months before crossing the Channel.
The artefact, which is 224ft long and has 58 scenes, is due to go on display in London in September next year for nine months as part of a controversial deal announced by President Macron in July during his state visit to Britain
It will be the first time it has been on British soil since its creation; it is thought to have been made by nuns in Canterbury.
The loan has been made possible because its permanent home, the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, has just been closed for a major renovation which will take until October 2027.
Read more of this report from The Sunday Times.