Wall’s city past told in new community film
hadrian’s Wall often conjures up images of the ancient structure that winds its way through the rolling countryside of northumberland.
But, on the 1,900th anniversary of the roman-built marvel, a new film tells how the Wall once ran straight through the area that over time would develop into the vibrant city of newcastle.
‘Gannin’ alang The Wall: The romans Went This Way’ follows the real route of hadrian’s Wall from the fort of segedunum just outside the eastern boundary of the city, through the heart of newcastle, reaching heddon just beyond its western boundary.
The film is not a straightforward documentary, although it is historically accurate. it is also lighthearted but also raises serious questions about the impact of invasion and occupation.
it follows the route of hadrian’s Wall through newcastle in relation to the modern city by filming scenes along the route. along the way, we meet roman soldiers marching down shields road, eating pasties from Greggs, and admiring the motorcycles on Westgate road.
We encounter native Britons complaining about the impact of the roman occupation on their lives, and modern-day residents who are proud of the roman heritage.
around 100 people took part in the film, bringing to life scenes at different points along the 12-mile route of the Wall.
Judith Green, from the newcastle West End community organisation st
James’ heritage and Environment Group and director of ‘Gannin’ alang the Wall’, said: “We learned so much ourselves about the route of the Wall while making the film, and we want to share this with others.
“The film is intended to increase awareness of the actual route of the Wall through places such as Byker, denton Burn and Walbottle.”
one of the main motives in making the film was to encourage people’s awareness of the ‘real route’ of the Wall.
it is an important part of newcastle’s heritage and many think it ought to be better recognised.
West End resident Jim sadler, who took part in ‘Gannin’ alang the Wall’ said: “My wife anne and i have lived on Condercum Estate for 44 years. living approximately 20 metres
from the Temple of antenociticus, 80 metres from the vallum and 50 metres from the roman fort site makes us feel immensely proud.
“There should be more signage and artefacts indicating the actual site of hadrian’s Wall and settlements. We support any efforts to restore the true path of the roman Wall to its actual location.”
‘Gannin’ alang the Wall’ was supported by newcastle City Council
and is st James’ heritage and Environment Group’s contribution to the hadrian 1900 Festival.
it is freely available for showing by interested organisations, provided that they let st James’ heritage and Environment Group know first. it can be viewed at stjamesheritage.com and dvd copies can be obtained for the purpose of showings.
Email stjamesbenwell@gmail.com for more details.