THE Durham Women’s Gala will return next month following the success of the revived celebration of women’s contribution to society, last year.

Staged in its traditional venue at Wharton Park, which was also the original home of the Durham Miners’ Gala, this year’s event, on Saturday June 8, will focus on young women and their role in politics.

It ties in with the theme of the Trades Union Congress’s Year of the Young Worker.

The family-friendly event will feature activities to amuse younger visitors, as well as live music, food and a more than a healthy hint of feminism.

Speakers will include the Shadow Attorney General, Baroness Shami Chakrabarti, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, as well as young feminist campaigners from Tyneside to Teesside.

Some of the North-East’s premier female musical acts will perform for visitors, and entry will once again be free of charge.

Maura McKeon, Durham’s youngest county councillor, who chairs the Friends of the Durham Women’s Gala, said: “It is vital that a diverse array of voices speaks at all levels of our politics, and young women bring a unique perspective.

“Frustratingly, we often have to fight harder to be taken seriously.

“I hope the Durham Women’s Gala can amplify our voice and shine a light on the formidable women of all ages who are building a better North-East.’

The gala is supported by UNISON, the public-sector trade union and the largest women’s organisation in the UK.

More than 1,000 people visited last year’s event, which marked 100 years of women’s suffrage.