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Black British mineworkers share their stories in new documentary screening at The Bonington
Date Posted: 10:52 AM on Wed, 11 June 2025.jpg)
Black British mineworkers share their stories in new documentary screening at The Bonington
Gedling Windrush 2025 is being marked by an event this year with a special screening of Skin & Coal, a documentary sharing the voices of Black British coalminers who worked at Gedling Colliery, underground and on the surface, which is now Gedling Country Park, Nottinghamshire, as well as other pits in Doncaster and Leeds during the 1980s.
The film captures first-hand accounts from former mineworkers and their families. It explores working-class life in the East Midlands and the North through stories of labour, community and survival in one of the most dangerous industries of the time.
The screening takes place on Thursday 19th June at 7pm at The Bonington Theatre, Arnold and is free entry. It will be hosted by local historian Dr Norma Gregory, whose work focuses on Black British industrial heritage.
After the film, there will be a Q&A with special guests, a networking session, and a chance to view the Digging Deep Black Mineworkers’ Heritage Exhibition. Attendees can also speak with heritage professionals about careers and projects in the sector. The first 50 guests will receive a free Windrush industrial heritage poster.
Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances and Vulnerability said:
“We are incredibly proud to be screening this powerful documentary that brings to life the story of the black mineworkers who worked at the former Gedling Colliery and nearby pits. It’s important that we recognise the contribution of Black British workers to our local and national history. I hope people across Gedling will come along to this free event and enjoy the brilliant speakers we have, and I would like to thank Dr Gregory for the work she has done, working with Gedling Borough Council, to make this event happen.”
Tickets are free and available now at www.boningtontheatre.co.uk
Free tickets for the screening