People urged to share Thatcher-era memories

Margaret Thatcher became the UK's first female prime minister in 1979

People are being asked to share their memories of the Thatcher era as part of a festival marking the 100th anniversary of her birth.

Grantham Guildhall Arts Centre is looking for photos, newspaper clippings, personal memories, or memorabilia related to the 1980s and the tenure of the UK's first female prime minister for a new film.

It is part of Thatcher Fest, which begins in her home town on 13 October.

The council said the festival would cover the "history, conflict and divisive politics of her time in power."

Margaret Thatcher is often credited with overseeing a period of great change in Britain, including privatising nationalised industries and allowing council tenants to buy their homes.

In 1980, she delivered one of her most defiant speeches at the Conservative Party Conference in Brighton on her controversial counter-inflationary policies.

"To those waiting with bated breath for that favourite media catchphrase, 'the U turn', I have only one thing to say. You turn if you want to - the lady's not for turning."

The 1984-85 miners' strike and the Falklands war of 1982 also took place during Thatcher's time in office.

More than 140,000 workers walked out in March 1984 in protest over Thatcher's plans to shut 20 pits

South Kesteven District Council's deputy leader, Councillor Paul Stokes, said: "This is a chance to be part of a community video sharing your memories of Margaret Thatcher, good or bad, and how she affected your life during her years as prime minister.

"The video will remember the life of Grantham's most famous daughter and, no matter what your politics are, our discussions around the commemoration event are sure to provoke lively debate," he added.

Submissions for the film can be made by email until 29 September.

Other events include a drag show starring Matt Tedford as The Iron Lady, reimagining the evening of the Section 28 vote, with Thatcher getting lost in Soho and accidentally becoming a cabaret singer.

Former junior health minister Edwina Currie will also be hosting an evening of chat and memories.

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