Stoke on Film 1980s - A Potteries Historical Film DVD

This captivating selection of archive films, produced by Ray Johnson MBE, offers a rich tapestry of local history and cultural milestones, showcasing significant events and developments from the Stoke-on-Trent area. Spanning various themes, these films serve as nostalgic glimpses into the community's past:

1. **JOLLEES NIGHTCLUB:** Opened in 1973 and closed in 1981, Jollees was the hub for locals to see their favorite TV stars live. This segment features reminiscences from Fred Van Buren and Charles Plant, alongside Charles's film of the nightclub's interior before its closure, and an engaging interview with compere Mel Scholes and bandleader John Simmonds.

2. **PARK HALL COUNTRY PARK:** Highlighting the last of the city’s major reclamation projects, opened in 1981, this film documents the construction and completion of Park Hall Country Park, showcasing its transformation into a beloved local recreational area.

3. **POTTERIES MARATHON:** Dubbed "The Friendly Marathon," this event first took place in 1982. In this section, Don Shelley shares the origins of the marathon, paired with footage from the inaugural races and insights from "jogging jazzer" Eric Newton.

4. **NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME 1983/84:** John Abberley reflects on developments in the borough during this period, featuring scenes from the vibrant 1984 Carnival, capturing the spirit and community engagement of the time.

5. **MINERS' STRIKE 1984:** A poignant segment featuring Arthur Scargill discussing the miners' strike, along with powerful coal mining scenes from the era. The film also illustrates the vital role of the Miners' Wives Action Group as they fought against pit closures.

6. **NEW VICTORIA THEATRE:** This film chronicles the development of the Stoneyfields site beginning in 1984, featuring commentary from notable figures such as Peter Cheeseman, Robert Powell, and Ben Kingsley, culminating in the grand opening of the New Victoria Theatre in 1986.

7. **CAMPAIGN TO SAVE LONGTON TOWN HALL:** Spearheaded by Ellis Bevan, this segment documents the tireless campaign to save the historic Longton Town Hall, illustrating the public's determination through meetings, marches, and confrontations, leading up to an eleventh-hour rescue as demolition work commenced.

8. **NATIONAL GARDEN FESTIVAL:** This film explores the planning and reclamation of the site leading up to the National Garden Festival, which opened in 1986 with a ceremony conducted by the Queen. It captures the festival in full swing, including commentary from key figures involved in its realization.

**Running Time:** 95 minutes

This comprehensive collection not only preserves vital aspects of Stoke-on-Trent's history but also celebrates the community's resilience and creativity throughout the years.