Organisers said feedback to the formation of a Facebook page and a Mercury story, both flagging the event, has been nothing short of 'phenomenal'.

"We thought we might get a handful of people interested but the Facebook page interest has been solid," said organiser and former employee Libby Lawrence.

Another organiser and former employee Jo Threlfo said a Mercury report about the event promoted a great deal of interest which in turn led to a spike in people joining the Facebook group.

"A lot of people have expressed interest in the reunion and are keen, however ticket sales have been slow," Libby said. She said the ticket price will be reduced following some complaints. "We have 25 people confirmed as going but the event is still several weeks away."

The women said that at times it has been quite emotional reading former employees' comments. "Their reactions have blown me away," Libby said.

"The mill was the lifeblood of manufacturing in Maitland and the Hunter Valley and I still have sheets, clothing, towels and fabric that I purchased in the staff shop all those years ago.

"People loved going to work there, it was family, it was fun, and inclusive of all walks of life. This event will reunite old friends (and foes) and keep the stories alive - the Christmas parties, Easter picnic and all the other social events were fabulous."

The March 21 reunion will be held at The Bradford Hotel. Those interested who don't have Facebook can register via email on ntb20years@gmail.com or on the Sticky Tickets website (search National Textiles reunion).