Durham Pride and LGBTQ+ groups given their very own section of Durham Miners’ Gala for the first time

Durham Pride and LGBTQ+ groups were given their very own section of the Durham Miners’ Gala for the very first time on Saturday. 

Mel Metcalf, Chair of Durham Pride, said it “meant an awful lot” to be invited to the event, which marked the 41st anniversary of the miners’ strike and featured a vibrant parade through the streets of the city earlier in the day.

 “To be here with Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM), where it all began in 1984 and 1985 during the strike, is absolutely fabulous,” he said.

Mr Metcalf, whose father and grandfather were both miners, said it was his first time attending the Gala.

He added: “It means a great deal to be here because of the history. It was an unusual alliance back in the ’80s, and social media has been buzzing because of the connection.”

Mr Metcalf noted that people often forget Mike Jackson, a co-founder of LGSM, was present during the strike in the 1980s.

He said: “It’s inspiring to see him and the team here, but also incredibly moving that the Durham Miners’ Association has invited us in recognition of that historic connection. ‘Solidarity’ is definitely the word of the day.”

Kate Osborne, MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East, said she was delighted to see the LGBTQ+ block included in the parade.

“There’s a strong bond between the miners and the LGBTQ+ community,” she said. 

“It’s hugely significant - not to suggest LGBTQ+ people haven’t been part of this for many years.”