Dear friends

The Durham Miners Gala is the world's greatest celebration of trade union and community values.

For 154 years it has celebrated collectivism, inclusion, internationalism and above all the joy of community. It raises our spirits, reinforces our unity and it is where the young are welcomed into our trade union family.

This year’s Gala will be a massive show of solidarity against all those who threaten our hard-won gains and our founding principles.

Once the costs of the Gala were paid from the wages of Durham miners, but after Thatcher decimated the industry and turned Durham into an industrial desert the, Durham Miners Association (DMA) has relied on the donations of thousands of supporters.

Over half has come from the trades unions who have made a big investment in the Gala over the last ten years.

Costs, however, have risen by 25 percent in three years and although we understand the financial difficulties many organisations are experiencing, an investment in this magnificent event will pay the movement many dividends.

Thanking you in anticipation.

In solidarity 

Dave Anderson

Chair, Friends of Durham Miners’ Gala