SGMRG Talk: Bevin Boys
Coalpit Heath Village Hall
7.30pm for an 8pm prompt start at the Miners Institute (aka Coalpit Heath Village Hall), 214 Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath, BS36 2QB
Our next South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group talk is Bevin Boys, the forgotten conscripts, the story of their war and of eventual recognition for Bevin Boys by Jackie Swift (Barry War Museum). Jackie’s talk details the history of Bevin Boys and includes some wartime film clips including one of the Pathe News items.
Many coal miners had signed up in the forces and, by 1943, coal supply was becoming critical. Ernest Bevin, the Minister for Fuel and Power came up with a scheme for compulsory recruitment of men to assist with coalmining.
“Bevin Boys” were selected by a fortnightly ballot determining the last digit of their National Service number and had to report for training or face a fine and/or prison sentence. Bevin boys were not officially recognised until long after the war had finished. Warwick Taylor MBE, an ex Bevin Boy, worked tirelessly until the government recognised the contribution they had made to the war effort.
Jackie’s research into the subject is extensive and can be viewed at www.theforgottenconscript.co.uk. Also she has written the story as a TV drama and is searching for a film company to take this project forward.
Non members welcome - £2 each for the talk (cash please). Membership of the South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group is £20 per year and includes talks and newsletters.
