A letter in the Bridport News has brought a host of interesting stories and photos about how Bridport women were affected and took part in the protests at Greenham Common. These stories will be included in the programme for the upcoming production of A Common Woman Reimagined, which focuses on what would have made an ordinary women go to Greenham.
The letters tell of how some mothers were active supporters of CND and led protests here in Bridport as well as going to Greenham itself.
Annette Atkinson sent a photo of her mother Jill Gallop leading a protest in Bucky Doo and explained: ‘My mother was a mother of 4 and a teacher at Colfox at the time, she definitely went to Greenham Common several times, between 1981 – 83. On one occasion she apparently wore a skeleton costume and was told what to do if arrested (fortunately for us she wasn’t!). She also regularly ran a CND stall on Bucky Doo.’
Rebecca Hilton, who is taking part in the production as one of the Greenham singers told how ‘When Greenham did the “Embrace the Base” day of action my CND friends and I got a coach from Weymouth up to Greenham, I remember feeling like I was part of something really big and what we were doing made a difference. I felt like I had found my tribe and this was what I was meant to be doing in my life, rebelling and fighting for change. I remember the feeling that together women could be strong and face any oppression or adversity.’
Many other women who have made Bridport their home wrote, including Deborah Legge, and she told how ‘I remember going to Greenham Common with my friend and her mum to take supplies to the amazing women there and forming a human chain around the fence. I came from a very boring provincial place and seeing their strength and courage helped to shape my already growing interest in the peace and environmental movements! I have met many wonderful and inspirational people taking part in walks, marches and other actions to ensure a peaceful, fair and green world.’
Anna Sullock got in touch and remembered ‘A few of us students borrowed a windowless transit and arrived at a muddy venue. There was a powerful sense of purpose. All I felt I could offer, apart from being another marching presence, was a plait of my hair that I cut and tied to the fence. I admired those who were living there, the hard core group..It was a momentous time.’
Directed by Margie Barbour the play will be performed at the Lyric Theatre, Bridport on Saturday 6th April at 7.30 and on Sunday 7th April at 2.30 and 7.30, tickets are £12 and £6 concessions for Job seekers and Universal credit. Tickets are on sale at Bridport’s Tourist Information Centre, 01308 424901 www.bridportandwestbay.co.uk/tickets.
