A MINERS' leader has launched a stinging attack on Tony Blair on the eve of the Miners' Gala.

Writing in the programme for today's 121st gala, Durham NUM secretary David Hopper said: "The main concern on the doorsteps was the illegal war in Iraq and the dishonest way in which it was justified.

"People can no longer trust a Labour government whose leaders have used its landslide majority to steamroller decisions through Parliament, ignoring the wishes of its supporters."

Mr Hopper said that Mr Blair was invited last September - no Labour leader has attended since 1987 - to be at the Gala, but his office said he would be too busy.

"I was not surprised. However, the fact that a local MP who represents a coalfield area is not interested in addressing the biggest trade union gathering in Britain surely says everything.

"The Gala is, however, bigger than any individual and will be around long after the present Prime Minister has left office."

The 121st Big Meeting will start with bands and banners parading to the Racecourse from 9am.

Between 12.30 and 1.30pm there will be speeches from MP Dennis Skinner, War on Want president Rodney Bickerstaffe, CWU general secretary Billy Hayes and Debbie Coulter, deputy general secretary of the GMB union.

The gala service will take place in Durham Cathedral at 3pm and there will be music, sideshows and fun fair rides on the Racecourse until 6.45pm.

About 50,000 people are expected and city centre roads will be closed.

* See Monday's paper for reports and pictures from the Gala.