Leek Polish Connection: Paths of Survival - talks by Leek's Polish Community

Join us for a special session exploring the journeys and experiences of Polish soldiers who came to Blackshaw Moor Camp following the Second World War.

Paths of Survival: The Journey of Polish Soldiers to Blackshaw Moor Camp

Join Barbara Grzegorzek Sidley for a talk exploring the journeys of Polish soldiers who came to Blackshaw Moor Camp following the Second World War. Discover more about the experiences, challenges and journeys that brought them to Staffordshire Moorlands, and the beginnings of a new chapter in their lives.

“Africa” – A Path of Survival

Join Zbyszek Hryciuk for a talk exploring a chapter in the journey of Polish soldiers through the story of Africa and their paths to survival. Discover more about the experiences and challenges faced by Polish soldiers during their wartime journeys, and the remarkable paths that shaped their lives.

The two talks will be followed by a Q&A, offering an opportunity to reflect on the stories shared and learn more about these remarkable journeys.

Date & time: 10:30am-11:30am, Saturday 21st November 2026
Location: The Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery, Stockwell Street, Leek, ST13 6DW
Admission: Free

Your ticket includes both talks, the Q&A session and admission to the main exhibition, Blackshaw Moor: The Hope of New Beginnings, at The Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery.

Access and parking

The museum and art gallery are located on the first floor of the Nicholson Institute. There is step-free access via a lift, and the gallery can also be reached by stairs. An accessible entrance to the building is located to the left hand side of the front staircase.

There is no accessible toilet in the Museum & Art Gallery. The nearest accessible toilet is on Silk Street Car Park.

There is no car park on-site, but there are several public car parks within a short distance, including Vicarage Road and Silk Street. Parking spaces cannot be booked in advance.

At particularly busy times, you may be asked to wait for a short time before entering the gallery. Thank you for your patience while we make sure everyone can enjoy the exhibition safely and comfortably.

Suitable for: All ages

Marketing information

The information provided when booking may be shared with the Friends of the Nicholson Institute Museum & Art Gallery and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council for future marketing and promotion of the exhibition and related activity.