Spirit of solidarity still alive at annual Durham Miners' Gala

ON Saturday, the streets of Durham echoed once again with the sound of brass bands and marching feet as tens of thousands gathered for the 139th Durham Miners' Gala.

- DAVE PIKE

It was a powerful reminder that, no matter how many years pass since the last pit closed, the spirit of working-class solidarity remains alive and thriving.

This year’s Gala carried the defiant message: We Are Still Here. And for everyone who lined the streets, carried banners, or marched with their community, it rang true.

The Big Meeting is no museum piece. It’s a living tradition - a celebration of who we are, where we've come from, and the future we are determined to build together.

There were new moments of pride this year that made the day especially historic.

For the first time, a Pride Bloc marched in the procession - a visible, joyful sign that the trade union movement is growing more inclusive and determined to uplift every part of our community.