Join PCS at the Durham Miners' Gala

The “Big Meeting” is an iconic annual festival celebrating the trade union history of mining communities,  international solidarity, and working- class life.

Marie McDonough, PCS NEC member, has attended the Gala for over 25 years. “The Big Meeting is unique. It gives us all a lift to join former miners and the thousands of trade union reps and members who struggle year-round on behalf of working people. The historic struggles of the miners and their communities remind us all why we do this. The solidarity on the traditional march into the city, the bands and the speeches are very moving. That’s why the Durham Miners' Gala is the highlight of the year for many PCS members in Northern region and beyond."

Stephen Guy, chair of the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA), welcomes PCS members to the Gala. “I’m looking forward to meeting our friends and supporters from our sister union PCS. Trade unions are still vitally important in today’s society. It was the solidarity of trade unions that supported our LGBTQ community and saved Durham Pride this year. All our struggles are inextricably linked and given voice at the Big Meeting”.

Gala arrangements

The Gala takes place this year on Saturday 11 July. PCS members and their families meet at 9.30am, Whitechurch Free House, Durham DH1 3DN for the traditional march into the city. Bring flags and banners!

PCS has a stall at the event run by members of our national young members' network - make sure you come along and say hello.

You can book camping at the official Gala campsite, and you can become a Friend of the Durham Miners Gala.

Further information: Simon Elliott, PCS Northern regional secretary [email protected].