KEY workers who have helped the country through the Covid crisis will be celebrated at this year’s Durham Miners’ Gala, which returns after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

Crowds of around 200,000 people will be welcomed into Durham city centre once again for the trade union-backed event on Saturday July 9.

Organised by the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA), the Big Meeting is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and sees brass bands and banners parade through the historic city centre.

Carers and bus drivers, delivery workers and nurses, shop staff and teachers, everyone who has risked their lives to keep society functioning throughout the pandemic will be celebrated, the DMA said.

The Northern Echo: Durham Miners' Association secretary Alan Mardghum. Picture DMA Durham Miners' Association secretary Alan Mardghum. Picture DMA

DMA Secretary Alan Mardghum said: “We are delighted to be able to confirm that the Gala will return in 2022.

“We know it has been sorely missed. For many it truly is the highlight of the year.

“The Gala has been at the heart of the cultural life of the people of the Durham coalfield area for more than 150 years.”

Before the pandemic, only two world wars and two national strikes had stopped the gala marching on during its 151-year history.

Senior Labour figures are invited to speak at the gala and a large funfair makes it a day-out for many families.

The event also features a service at Durham Cathedral which celebrates the county’s mining heritage, with brass band music and banners being blessed.

Between now and the Gala, the DMA will work with trades union branches across the country to bring people into Durham, and is calling on the public to gather in greater numbers than ever before in support of the country’s key workers.

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Mr Mardgum said: “The Gala has also been a rallying point to fight for social justice throughout its long history.

“We dedicate this year’s Gala to the workers of this country. As the pandemic made so clear, it is they our society truly needs.

“Our key workers will be centre stage, and I urge everyone to join us in Durham in a massive demonstration of our support.”

The Northern Echo: Durham Miners' Gala returns this year. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO Durham Miners' Gala returns this year. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO

The costs of hosting the Gala rise every year, but organisers are facing a huge increase in 2022.

Bumper crowds are expected, safety and stewarding costs are rising and inflation has hit infrastructure costs.

Everyone who values The Big Meeting is urged to chip in.

For more than a century, the Gala was funded by the working miners of the Durham coalfield.

Following the closure of the collieries it is funded by donation and subscription through the Friends of Durham Miners Gala (FODMG).

Those who contribute are known as ‘Marras’, a Durham miners’ term for a friend who can be relied on in times of need.

FODMG chairman Dave Anderson said: “The Gala is a unique and inspiring spectacle.

“There is nothing like it anywhere else in the world and it happens in Durham.

“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, I urge you – please sign up, become a Marra, and help ensure this wonderful day continues to survive and thrive.”

To support the Gala, visit www.durhamminersgala.org, call 0191 or email marras@durhamminersgala.org.

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