The Gathering Storm | The General Strike (Part 2)

A boy raised in the shadow of the mines. A world forged in defiance.

Will Lawther grows up in Northumberland, in a vast mining household where every day begins and ends with the rhythm of the pit. But his life will take an unusual turn. Joined by historian Jonathan Kindleysides (Beamish Museum), host and genealogist Jen Baldwin walks us through terraced streets, dark mines, and the rise of early labour politics. They explore how danger, community, and responsibility shaped Will’s life long before the chaos of the 1926 General Strike. How does a childhood forged underground prepare a young man for leadership during one of Britain’s most historic moments?

Host: Jen Baldwin

Researchers: Jen Baldwin and Barry Kline

Oral History Credits: Northumberland Archives

Guest: Jonathan Kindleysides (Beamish Museum)

Editor: CM87Edits

Script Editors: Niall Cullen, Madeleine Gilbert, and James Plumb

Producers: Madeleine Gilbert, Ellie Ayton, and James Plumb

Designer: Michael McCosh

Executive Producers: Helen Kaye and Steve James

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