Officials are planning to have the Gala back in its usual format by 2021 when the pandemic is hopefully over.
Next month the ‘Big Meeting’ is being held online with a series of new content celebrating the spirit and values of the event.
In the meantime, let’s take a look at some Gazette archive photos showing South Tyneside banners and bands at the annual favourite.
We are hoping they will bring back wonderful memories of a great event which attracts thousands of people every year.
5. Taking the salute on the Royal County Hotel balcony
Michael Foot, Tony Benn, Neil Kinnock and miners leader Lawrence Daly are all pictured in this 1983 photo. Photo: Hartlepool Mail
6. Harton and Westoe in 1964
A reminder of the Harton and Westoe Lodge banner at the 1964 Big Meeting. Is it a favourite social event of yours? Photo: Shields Gazette
7. What a crowd in 1982
Representatives of the Boldon Lodge get ready to march towards the County Hotel in 1982. Photo: Shields Gazette
8. Getting ready to leave
Bandsmen are pictured leading Westoe miners from their assembly point at the Armstrong Hall, South Shields, for the trip to Durham in 1974. Photo: Shields Gazette