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Gala Day

Thousands of people turned out for the 127th Miners Gala in Durham on Saturday 9th July.

Marchers arrived from the crack of dawn to begin their procession through the streets – with more than 80 banners, including the DAMHA standard, and led by more than 40 bands from across the country.

Each band performed outside the Royal County Hotel for dignitaries on the balcony above, before making their way to the racecourse. Among the dignitaries this year was guest of honour Carlos Bugueno Alfara – one of the Chilean miners who was rescued after being trapped underground for more than two months.

Mr Bugueno, who draped his country’s flag over the balcony, said: “I was really touched by the reception I got.”

After the parade, speeches were made on the racecourse and Bob Crow, the General Secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union, and MP Dennis Skinner, were among those who spoke.

Despite some rain, it didn’t dampen the spirits and DAMHA was once again very proud to have participated in such an historic event.