A GROUP from the Jim Connell Society travelled from County Neath to the 131st Durham Miners Gala recently. We were not disappointed.

We were picked up in Newcastle and taken to the Miners Hall in Red Hills where we met up with Dave Hopper, general secretary of the regional NUM, and his team of loyal volunteers to whom we are most grateful.

On Saturday morning we headed into Durham with our banner – and what a spectacle. Young, middle-aged and elderly people all took part and every one seemend to be enjoying themselves.

We enjoyed brilliant speeches in the field and singing songs on the Saturday night. Everyone was in great form. What more could anyone want?

On behalf of the group I express our sincere gratitude to everyone concerned.

Tommy Grimes,

Jim Connell Society.