The Burr of Berwick Film Library presents Miners’ Weekend School (1984), a six-part documentary produced by Amber Films’ Current Affairs Unit during the 1984–85 Miners’ Strike. This exhibition marks the 40th anniversary of the strike and invites reflection on mutual aid, working-class self-education, and the role of grassroots organising in resisting anti-strike legislation.

Filmed in Ashington, the tapes document a grassroots weekend of political education, where miners and activists gathered to strategise, organise, and support one another. Topics include police tactics, legal rights, media bias, support groups, and union coordination—issues that remain urgent today.

Part of Amber’s radical legacy in British cinema, footage from the Miners’ Weekend School also featured in News from Durham (1984) and led to Can’t Beat It Alone (1985).

About the Film Library:
The Burr of Berwick Film Library is a community video archive and exhibition series. Open and evolving, the Burr Film Library offers a shared space for screenings, discussions, and creativity.

Based at 22 Bridge Street, the Film Library is open Saturdays 12 – 4pm. The Library also travels to present pop-up events at spaces and occasions around town.

With the potential to speak to personal memories and experiences, the films reflect and respond to real-world topics. Everyone is invited to pop in for a cuppa and share ideas and stories, or delve into the Library’s themes through events and workshops.