A film showing of the critically acclaimed Tony Benn: Will and Testament hosted by Durham Cathedral last year has raised £2,000 for the Durham Miners' Gala.

Durham Miners’ Association Secretary Dave Hopper said: ‘The Durham Miners’ Association is delighted to receive this generous donation of £2,000 from Durham Cathedral. It will be used to help ensure the future of the Durham Miners’ Gala.

‘For over 100 years the cathedral has played a pivotal role on Gala Day, hosting the Miners Commemorative Service, which attracts thousands each year and adds so much to the success of the day.

‘It has been a pleasure for us to collaborate with the cathedral staff on a number of projects over the years and we look forward to our continued association.’

Director of the documentary Skip Kite said: “We wanted to screen the film in Durham Cathedral because it played such an important part in Tony’s life through the Miners' Gala – the film even includes footage of Tony processing through the Cathedral on one of those famous Gala days.

“It is wonderful to think that the meony from this event will go towards ensuring the Durham Miners’ Gala can enjoy a bright future, because I have no doubt that Tony would have been supporting the DMA and its Gala had he still been alive.”

Click below to become a Friend for just £2 per month