Centenary celebration of Robert Tressell’s The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists

Robert Tressell Centenary Event

This seminal book is as relevant today as it ever was, and Otherwords Productions are organising a free fundraising event to raise awareness of Robert Tressell and the important role the Ragged Trousered Philanthropists has played in  our social history, both home and abroad. Organiser Tara Reddy describes the event to HOT reporter Cathy Simpson.

‘Celebrating Robert Tressell has totally captured the imagination of the Hastings community – and this has been reflected in fantastic responses from speakers and artists wanting to involve themselves in an informative and lively event!

Hastings Mayor Bruce Dowling will be opening the show with the Pop-up event in Robertson street at 2pm; following through to an evening event at 6pm in Carlisle Pub.

The event will celebrate 100 years of Robert Tressells book The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists!

Set in a seaside town call Mugsborough, the novel is a classic example of working class literature. The story still rings true today, and many of the landmarks in the book can be discovered in Hastings town itself… so join us, hand in hand with Robert Tressell.

The day will be filled with pop up stalls, music, word, song and art workshops for kids and adults alike!

We have a great line up with Attilla the Stockbroker, Tyson Dogg, Steve Finnerty, Salina Godden, Bryan McMahon, Steve Peak, Martin Chomsky and international journalist Nadine Ghouri.

We are showing the film debut of Shut out the Light.

Urban Bikes are doing a Ragged Trousered Parade at 6pm.

Ed Boxall is facilitating an art and story telling workshop; Joy Hoi Poloi is doing a bunting workshop; Juliette Dodd has made a fab face through which you can have your photo taken… and just in case you haven’t made enough of a fool of yourself,
Cathy Simpson will be drawing caricatures.’

This fantastic event – as well as being a celebration! – is also a fundraiser to create a permanent memorial to Robert Tressell. And don’t forget, his book is available from many local outlets, including St Leonards Central and Hastings Tourist Information Centre.

Also in: Literature