Play highlights industrial dispute

The new play looks at the prosecution of the so-called Shrewsbury 24, building workers accused of violent picketing and intimidating workers in 1973. Three, including actor Ricky Tomlinson, were jailed.

United We Stand is being performed as campaigners call for the release of confidential documents alleged to show undue influence on the trial by the government at the time.

The play, by Neil Gore, launches its 2015 tour at Cast on January 22 and incorporates political songs.

A spokesperson said: “Sharp and humorous, United We Stand tells the story behind the compelling dispute and dispels the myth, put about at the time, that the pickets were criminally violent rather than ordinary working men seeking a better life for themselves and their fellow workers.

“The events surrounding the strike are still making headlines to this day, and 42 years on, the high-profile Shrewsbury 24 Campaign, led by picket-turned-actor Ricky Tomlinson, is still seeking to overturn the unjust prosecution of the 24 building workers.

“Combining Townsend Productions’ trademark cast of two playing multiple roles, grand theatrical style and wit with popular and political songs about the strike, arranged by renowned folk musician John Kirkpatrick, and Ricky Tomlinson’s poems from his time in prison, the production aims to bring the full story of the compelling dispute to life in a powerful and thought-provoking new play.”

The production begins at 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £10.50 or £8.50 concessions and are available by calling 01302 303 959