Those of you who know us, know that we are based in Expressway in the heart of the Royal Docks, Newham. Those who know us really well will know that Newham is where our founder, Surinder, grew up. Our borough has always been close to our hearts and we are proud of our work with local organisations such as Newham College, Tate & Lyle, Good Hotel London, Community Links, Expressway London and the Newham Chamber of Commerce – where Surinder is a member of the executive council. We’ve also received official commendation for helping develop Newham’s talented young creatives. So to say the theme of this year’s Newham Heritage Month – which celebrates the innovation and creativity in the borough – is ‘right up our street’ is something of an understatement…
‘Shops, docks and factories – Newham’s urban heritage’ …
… is the official theme of this year’s Newham Heritage Month which celebrates the rich history of industry, innovation and creativity in the borough. The month-long event honours local heroes both now and throughout history via fun, educational and creative workshops, performances, talks and walks.
Get involved online and outdoors!
There are online workshops and virtual tours to choose from – as well as walking trails and outdoor events and performances. So you can enjoy all the activities whilst still keeping safe.
High Street Heroes
All of Newham’s businesses have stories to tell – most recently how they adapted during the pandemic – and they are all fascinating. Hear all about them in the Newham Shop Story Trail, starting at Newham Bookshop.
Newham’s world-famous secret
As well as its High Street heroes, Newham is home to many hidden gems, not least JD McDougall Ltd – the world-famous producers of stage fabrics. Newham Heritage Month coincides with JD McDougall’s centenary year and the company is not only staging an outdoor art installation but also holding a special talk from director Ian McDougall and designers who work with the fabrics.
A pioneering history
Newham is known for the resilience of its diverse community which has produced many pioneers and talents. From The Sugar Girls of Tate & Lyle to the suffragettes, The Wonderful Women of Newham are celebrated this year with virtual guided tours by the East End Women’s Museum and a family walking trail. There is also an online musical theatre event celebrating Stories of Africans Living in Newham based on interviews with the African business owners, community leaders, creatives and entrepreneurs who have brought energy and vibrancy to our borough.
Get creative
And, of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to get creative with events from a special photography workshop for young people at Cody Dock to an online illustration workshop for everyone to a unique brickmaking workshop culminating in a performance from UEL students about housing in the borough.
Something for everyone and admission is FREE!
There really is something for everyone, whether you are a local that wants to learn more about the history of your neighbourhood or you just like the sound of this unique event. Full listings of all the activities can be found here!
We’re proud to supply design, print and web support to businesses in Newham and all over the world! We’d love to help you tell your story, whether you are local or not. Call us on 0208 590 0922 or email us at info@marcomedia.co.uk We’re here for you throughout lockdown and beyond…