Mexborough and Swinton Times, September 2nd, 1932
Mr Charles Hanmer
We hope shortly to see the mining film, “Black Diamonds,” in this district, and paid a visit to Mr. Charles Hanmer, its producer, this week to find him collecting press cuttings from all parts of the world since the showing of the film at the Regal, London.
He is particularly pleased with the reviews of the film by newspapers and periodicals circulating in districts where miners and mines are unknown. He expected to make a good impression on these area – that was one of his chief objects – but the results have exceeded expectations.
Sad Memories
“I am anxious that the film shall soon be shown in Yorkshire mainly because so many people here who have helped me are anxious to see the film. Yorkshire men and women, more particularly the miners and their families, will agree that the film was not made to entertain Yorkshire, but to enlighten the world. Personally, I shall receive the film’s arrival in Yorkshire with mixed feelings. In addition to the pleasure I know it will give to those who have helped to see the results of their efforts on the screen it cannot fail to revive in many thousands in the county sad, sad memories. I hope this re-opening of old wounds will be forgiven. I feel sure it will, for I am convinced that I have behind me in my object every resident in the county and every person who has the welfare of the miner at heart.”
Mr. Hanmer shares his honours with the mining community. “I shall be grateful if I may take this opportunity of expressing my thanks publicly to every individual in Yorkshire who so kindly helped me in my task.”
He was not particularly anxious to talk about the film itself. “You will soon have the opportunity of seeing the film for yourself then I expect Yorkshire people won’t be long in airing their views.”
At Home with Royalty
At the Royal show in London, he felt “quite at home.” I was sorry not to have the opportunity of meeting the Duchess of York, who was prevented from attending by a chill. But the Duke of York and Princess Arthur were both very nice homely people. Both expressed pleasure that such a film should have been made. I had quite a long chat with the Princess and was surprised to find how much she knew about mines and miners. I only wish the rest of the world knew as much! She wished the film a phenomenal success.”
We asked Mr. Hanmer about his next venture.
He said, “I cannot yet give you a complete story, but you may rest assured that it will be something off the beaten track. Copying other is not my line.