100th Anniversary of the General Strike

Ashford’s role in Trade Union History

Nine days that stopped Britain

Ashford Cinema
Elwick Place

3 May – 8 May 2026

Ashford Museum

From 12th May 2026

This exhibition explores Britain’s only national general strike, from its roots in the coal crisis to its impact on everyday life. Over nine days in May 1926,millions of workers withdrew their labour in support of locked out miners. Using national context and the local experience of Ashford, the exhibition shows how the strike was organised, how communities responded, and why it remains a powerful moment in working class and trade union history.

Launch of Exhibition

Ashford Cinema

Sunday 3rd May 4:00pm – 7:30pm

Drinks, Canapes and Film

£12.50

Speakers:

Barbara Plant, National President GMB
Simon Renton

Ken Loach inroducing his film ‘General Strike‘

Tickets from Ashford Cinema

Organised by

• Ashford Borough Council

in partnership with

• ASLEF
• GMB
• NUR
• TSSA
• South East Kent TUC
• Ashford Museum