Former mill workers in Wakefield encouraged to share their stories for new film
Free drop-in reminiscence sessions across the district will help shape a new immersive film about the people and connections formed in Wakefield’s mills.
One to One Development Trust, in partnership with Wakefield Libraries, is inviting people who worked in any of Wakefield’s mills to share their memories to help shape a new film.
‘Threads Of Us’ will explore the friendships, love stories and lasting connections made in the mills.
At the free, drop-in sessions, former mill workers can explore historic photographs and artefacts, share their stories and contribute to the project.
Two free drop-in sessions will take place next week in libraries: one in Ossett on October 20 at 2pm, and one in Horbury on October 22 at 10am.
There will then also be drop-in sessions at Sandal Library, at 10am, and at Wakefield Library, at 2pm, on November 10.
Stephen and Shirley Leaworthy met at Paton & Baldwins, now Tileyard North, where they became teenage sweethearts.
They celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary in 2022.
Stephen said: “A lot of people who worked at the mill formed lifelong friendships and relationships. It was a great place to work, and it’s important to remember the mills and share this heritage with the next generations.”
Their story is one of many that will be shared within the film, which will be made for touchscreen and VR headset experiences next year.
One to One Development Trust will also share it at festivals and events locally and internationally.
Judi Alston, creative director of One to One Development Trust, said: “We’re excited to begin this new project, Threads of Us, we’ve already started gathering stories, photographs and artefacts, and look forward to launching the film in March 2027.
"We’re very grateful to The Space for the funding and support of the project.”