ORGANISERS of the annual Durham Miners’ Gala have launched an appeal to raise £25,000 to help pay for the growing numbers of people who attend.

Last year more than 200,000 people attended the Big Meeting, which takes place every July in Durham city, and saw the introduction of a new stage, sound system and video screen to cater for the 50,000 people who gathered on the Racecourse to listen to speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Emily Thornberry and Ian Lavery.

This year, the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA) is trying to raise an extra £25,000 to pay for the new additions at the event, which will take place on Saturday, July 13.

Former MP and miner Dave Anderson, chair of the Marras, the friends of Durham Miners’ Gala, said: “The Gala is a unique and inspiring spectacle. There is nothing like it anywhere else in the world and it happens in Durham, attracting people from near and far to the city for the weekend.

The Northern Echo:

Last year's Durham Miners' Gala

“For many people it is the highlight of the year and we are working to ensure this year’s Big Meeting is the best yet.

“We need again to raise at least the extra £25,000 it cost to introduce last year’s improvements, and more than that to continue to develop the Gala. I thank all our marras for their contributions, and I urge everyone who values the Gala to give us their support.

“Whether you enjoy the sights and sounds and atmosphere of the Big Meeting, share its values of solidarity and community, or value the contribution it makes to the local economy, please sign up, become a marra, and help ensure this wonderful day continues to survive and thrive.”

Last year, live music was also added to the line-up, with a performance by singer-songwriter Billy Bragg.

Gala organisers also have to pay for extra stewarding and security as a result of the increasing size of the event.

In the past, the gala was paid for by working miners from County Durham but following the closure of the collieries has been funded by the Marras.

People can contribute to the cost of the event by joining the Marras.

To join, or for more information, go online to www.friendsofdurhamminersgala.org, email admin@friendsdmg.org, or call 0191 386 8413.