DURHAM Women’s Gala returns next month following last year’s successful revival of the celebration of the female contribution to society.

Staged in its traditional venue, at Wharton Park, Durham, which is 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 TUC’s Year of the Young Worker.

The family-friendly event will feature, “live music, food and feminism”, with speakers including Shadow Attorney General, Baroness Shami Chakrabarti, Northumbria PCC, Dame Vera Baird, plus other regional female campaigners.

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 she hopes the event will help to, “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.