Film fans in St Albans are invited to a free screening of a true story of hope and determination.

The screening of The Rochdale Pioneers will take place at the Trinity United Reformed Church in Beaconsfield Road on Friday, November 8 at 7.30pm.

Hosted by The Co-operative’s Regional Membership Team, the movie starring John Henshaw - is set in 1844 and tells of 28 working men whose vision for a fairer society inspired them to lay down principles recognised as the birth of the co-operative movement.

The film was made by The Co-operative British Youth Film Academy and received its TV premiere on Film4 last November.

Julia Fuller, The Co-operative’s Regional Membership Officer, said: "The film is an extraordinary story of ordinary people determined to overcome the poverty, prejudice and harsh conditions of the mid 19th century - it is a true story of struggle against adversity that remains just as relevant today.

"The film shows just what can happen when people work together. After the screening there is the chance to hear from The Co-operative Membership and local community groups about how co-operation today can enable people to bring about the changes that they want to see happen in their communities."

Tickets for the screening are limited and booking early is recommended. For more information email membership.centralandeastern@co-operative.coop or contact 01908 361500.