Miners Gala celebrating its 132nd march through Durham City

Historical banners




Former miner Billy Huitson, 90, entertained crowds at the gala

The balcony of the County Hotel - Getty Image

   Organised by the Durham Miners' Association since 1871, It is essentially a trade union rally but also a fun day out for the family and an occasion when former miners, their friends and well-wishers can get together .It features a parade of union banners through the streets of Durham City before crowds gather at the nearby racecourse for a rally and speeches.
‘The Big Meeting’ is a reminder that the miners of County Durham and Northumberland produced a large amount of the coal which was the mainstay of Britain’s industries and provided the heating and lighting for millions of homes. That output, which was fundamental to Britain’s civilisation, was achieved at great cost in terms of life and limb.

   Although Labour leaders had been regular speakers in the past, Ed Miliband was the first Labour Leader to address the gala for 23 years. To-day we have Jeremy Corbyn speaking as Labour Leader.
   Over 160,000 people have attended this year despite the inclement  weather. Corbyn addressed this meeting together with other speakers at this year's event including veteran Labour MP Dennis Skinner and TUC leader Frances O'Grady.

Mr Corbyn said he had spoken to some Labour MPs who had been barred from appearing on the main platform, but stressed it was up to the DMA to issue invitations.
DMA general secretary Dave Hopper said: "Contrary to recent press reports, Labour MPs who refused to support Jeremy Corbyn in the recent vote of confidence have not been banned or barred from attending this year's gala. The gala is a public event which anyone can attend.
"However, the invitations to attend the official Durham Miners' Association events and functions, stand on the balcony of the County Hotel and grace the platform on the racecourse have been rescinded."
He said: "Jeremy Corbyn is a guest of the Durham Miners' Association and we will not allow those who have sought to humiliate him and undermine the democratic process in the Labour Party the honour of taking part in the aforementioned gala traditions."