11 reminders of the Big Meeting in the year of its 150th anniversary - relive the memories of years gone by
The Durham Miners Gala reaches its 150th anniversary this weekend and it has meant so much to the people and pit villages of South Tyneside over the years.
Millions of miners, families and supporters have walked through the streets of the city on Big Meeting day ever since 1871.
And although the 2021 event will be entirely be held in the former pit communities rather than Durham itself on Saturday, we can still reflect on wonderful Galas of the past.
So many South Tyneside lodges have been represented. Bands from the borough and villagers by the thousands have converged on Durham.
See if you can spot a familiar face from years gone by.
So many South Tyneside lodges have been represented. Bands from the borough and villagers by the thousands have converged on Durham.
9. Entertaining the crowds
A band pauses to play at the balcony of the County Hotel at the 2007 Gala.
Photo: se
10. Share your Gala memories
We've marched back in time. Why not re-live your own memories of the Gala by emailing them to [email protected]
Photo: sg