The Cramlington Train Wreckers at Jarrow Focus
From the South Tyneside-based writer of the smash-hit plays Wor Bella, Hadaway Harry, Carrying David, Mr Covan's Music Hall and The Great Joe Wilson comes another incredible, forgotten story about the North East.
The General Strike of 1926 was the biggest rupture in society since the English Civil War (1662). A million miners were told to take a 40% cut in wages to "improve productivity" ie maintain the profits of the small number of pit owners. Huge wage cuts were also imposed on other sections of the workforce. The workers said no and Britain's only General Strike followed. It lasted a mere nine days (from a minute to midnight on May 3 to May 12 1926) before being unconditionally sold out by the TUC leadership.
On May 10 1926, (day 7 of Britain's only General Strike) miners accidentally derailed the Flying Scotsman at Cramlington. Eight Northumberland pitmen were imprisoned for a total of 48 years. The leader was Westoe-born Bill Muckle.
Almost a century later, supported by Arts Council England, their fascinating story is finally - about to be told!
Tickets are £1.50 per person. Suitable for ages 16+
Tickets can be booked online (plus booking fee) at: The Cramlington Train Wreckers or in person at the Shop @ The Word.
This event is part of The Word's WRITE Festival which takes place throughout the whole of September.
Enjoy a programme of unmissable events, workshops and performances! Find out more by viewing our full WRITE Festival programme.