Ned Williams Website, Black Country Author and Historian

I think I awoke to a potential interest in banners during the Miners Strike of 1984/85. John Gorman's book, "Banner Bright" then provided the catalyst and ever since then I have been a banner enthusiast. The world of banners encompasses the trade union movement, women's organisations (suffragettes, Co-op Women's Guild, The WI and the Townswomen's Guild), churches, chapels and Sunday Schools, Friendly Societies and Co-operative Societies. The most important month in the year for a banner enthusiast is July when three events follow each other in quick succession: Warrington Walking Day, the Durham Miners' Gala, and the Tolpuddle Rally. I would love to produce a book called "Banners of the Black Country" but I think the topic is probably too obscure.