THE DURHAM MINERS GALA IS BACK! THE DURHAM MINERS GALA will return this year. Hosted by the Durham Miners Association (DMA) since 1871, the Gala was cancelled for the last two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The DMA and the Friends of the Gala have been working with the local authority, police and other partners to confirm arrangements for the safe return of the event, which is attended by more than 200,000 people from across the region and beyond. We now confirm that The Big Meeting will return on Saturday 9 July 2022. Once again, the streets of Durham will be packed, as people march colliery banners to the sounds of brass brand music. The DMA announced last year that the returning Gala would be dedicated to key workers, carers and bus drivers, delivery workers and nurses, shop staff and teachers. Everyone who has risked their lives to keep society functioning throughout the pandemic will be celebrated. Between now and the Gala, we will work with trades union branches across the country to bring people into Durham, and call on the public to gather in greater numbers than ever before in support of the country’s key workers. DMA Secretary Alan Mardghum said: “We are delighted to confirm that the Gala will return in 2022. We know it 26 | TYNE & WEAR MAY DAY 2022|
has been sorely missed. For many, it truly is the highlight of the year. The Gala has been at the heart of the cultural life of the people of the Durham coalfield area for more than 150 years. “The Gala has also been a rallying point to fight for social justice throughout its long history. We dedicate this year’s Gala to the workers of this country. As the pandemic made so clear, it is they our society truly needs. Our key workers will be centre stage, and I urge everyone to join us in Durham in a massive demonstration of our support.” Also returning is the hugely popular Miners’ Festival Service at Durham Cathedral, which has been part of every Gala since 1897. The service, in celebration of Durham’s mining heritage and its communities of today, features
