Social and economic aspects of the Durham Coalfield
Wilf Bell
The 90 minutes presentation included an invitation to the group to speak the Geordie language and it was amusing to hear them say:
Worbairn’s hacky mucky
Ah wes pelatick and
Mindshesweelstacked
I went on to describe Ushaw Moor and New Brancepeth.
I emphasised the importance of coal to the Industrial Revolution and described the excitement, noise and colour of the Big Meeting. I got two verses of The Wash Day Song out of them and passed the view that they had done better with that than the earlier Geordie effort! I described the dedication of the pitmen’s wives, the dangers of the industry and passed on some experiences expressed by the Bevin Boys. I finished with my view of the 1984/5 strike and we then discussed it further before closure.
I recommend the U3A. Although it has the word University in the title ‘A’ Levels are not required, in fact no qualifications are needed. It is informal, stimulating and well organised. It is not a ‘stuck up’ organisation. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for those over 50 [in the Durham area anyway] and no longer in full time employment, to meet in an environment which provides the opportunity for life long learning. Members are encouraged to feel a sense of belonging, and to be valued for the contribution that they make. It is not expensive; in fact it’s the opposite. According to the Internet your nearest branch is based at Pity Me which is not very far from many of you. I imagine that some of their activities will take place even nearer to you.
I know I said I would not be writing again until after Christmas but I could not resist doing this one.
Regards, Wilf Bell.
