Flying columns hit the small screen

A locally made documentary exploring the War of Independence will air tonight on RTÉ One.

‘The Brigade’ explores the lives of ordinary West Cork people who fought against British rule in Ireland. The documentary, made by Clonakilty local Sam Kingston follows a set of volunteers recruited in Clonakilty who train as a flying column in Kilbrittain, Enniskeane and Kilmichael, learning what it was like to live on the run.

It also features University of Essex history students, who travel to West Cork to learn about the actions of the Essex Regiment of the British Army who were based there - a side of history not taught in British schools. The two part documentary is supported by Cork County Council through its Commemoration Committee and received funding from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

County Mayor Cllr Christopher O’Sullivan said: “We have a huge wealth of cultural heritage throughout Cork county and thanks to people like Samuel Kingston, local historians and volunteers such as those who have taken part in ‘The Brigade’ we can continue to improve our understanding.

“These stories are important, not only to us, but to all countries that have a colonial history. This documentary gives us the opportunity to share what we have learned as a nation on the international stage.”

The first episode of ‘The Brigade’ airs tonight Thursday 13 June at 10.15pm on RTÉ One.