Durham Miners’ Gala takes place, marking 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike

By William Milne

The Durham Miners’ Gala, self-described as “the world’s greatest working class festival and celebration of community and trade union values,” took place last weekend. This Gala marked the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, which, in 1984 and 1985, saw miners fight to preserve the jobs and livelihoods.

Thousands lined the streets to watch as bands, trade union groups and banner groups marched from Durham Market Place, through the city centre, and over Elvet Bridge. After this, performances took place outside the County Hotel on Old Elvet.

At Durham Cathedral, there was also a Blessing of the Banners service with recently made banners being carried from the racecourse to the cathedral to be blessed.

The theme of this year’s gala was “Solidarity Forever”, referencing, according to the Durham Miners’ Association, the solidarity that has united those involved in the strike.

All those who spoke at the gala this year had direct involvement in the miners’ strike or they are working to defend workers today. Speakers included trade union general secretaries including Mick Whelan (ASLEF), Christina McAnea (Unison), Matt Wrack (FBU), and Daniel Kebede (NEU). Others included Ian Lavery MP (former miner and President of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), Alan Mardghum (Secretary of the Durham Miners’ Association) and Heather Wood, who played a leading role in women’s support groups during and after the strike.

Image: Paul Simpson via Wikimedia Commons