Overview

• The 139th gathering drew thousands of trade unionists and community members to Durham Racecourse for Europe’s longest-running working-class demonstration.
• Jeremy Corbyn called for collective action against proposed welfare cuts and denounced the scapegoating of minorities during his keynote address.
• Palestinian Ambassador Dr Husam Zomlot praised Durham’s commitment to fairness and condemned Israeli actions in Gaza as genocidal.
• DMA General Secretary Alan Mardghum reaffirmed the decision to bar Reform UK councillors from the official platform on grounds of ideological conflict, prompting criticism from the party.
• County Durham Mayor Gary Hutchinson opened the gala by welcoming attendees to the “land of the black gold” and paying tribute to the event’s enduring heritage.