MUSICIANS, poets and politicians will join legendary filmmaker Ken Loach at a movie marathon in Moston today, in aid of a Salford community centre.

The director, known for his films’ social commentary, will speak alongside Ricky Tomlinson and Salford MP Rebecca Long-Bailey at Moston Miners’ Centre, while a selection of Loach’s films will be shown in the centre’s small cinema from 2pm.

The all-day fundraiser is in aid of Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre (UCRC), a charitable organisation that provides a range of assistance for homeless, unemployed and other vulnerable people.

The charity, founded in 1980, says its income has been cut in half in the past year, as greater numbers of vulnerable people reach out for assistance.

Salford City Council has given UCRC emergency funding, but the charity says it needs a bigger increase in funds to continue its community schemes across the city.

 

Ken Loach’s films often depict economic hardship in Britain, focusing on working class characters and communities similar to those served by the UCRC.

Films being shown at the Ken Loach movie marathon include his most recent film ‘I, Daniel Blake’, the award-winning tale of an ill man refused sickness benefit.

The event will feature performances from a range of acts including political ‘punk poet’ Attila The Stockbroker, comedian Smug Roberts and Salford poet J.B. Barrington.

Also performing at the event is local singer-songwriter The Northern Rambler, who says that the UCRC is a vital cause to support.

He said: “Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre helps ex-convicts and people on benefits – often the people society leaves behind.

“It’s important that we help them and show them that people care.”

Image may contain: 1 person, playing a musical instrument, on stage, sitting, guitar and night at Ken Loach movie marathon
The Northern Rambler, one of the acts playing at the fundraiser.

‘The Rambler’ also praised the Miners’ Centre for hosting the fundraiser, adding: “They understand the politics that affect the local community and run events around such things.

“They run several summer clubs for kids in the area, putting films on in the cinema and providing breakfast for just a few quid.

“It’s not just one of the last proper working class bars; it’s also the most amazing community space I’ve ever seen.”

Films and Conversation with Ken Loach and Friends takes place today at Moston Miners’ Centre, from 2pm until midnight. A limited number of tickets will be available on the door.

For more information on the Ken Loach movie marathon or the work of the Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre, visit the UCRC website.

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