On Saturday 13 July the 135th Durham Miners’ Gala will return to Durham City, an annual celebration of the rich mining heritage of North East England and continuing community spirit. Durham Cathedral plays a central role in this annual gala; the Miners’ Festival Service is held at the cathedral at 3pm. The procession of community banners into the Cathedral led by brass bands is at 2.30pm.

This year’s service will be particularly significant as the cathedral marks the 150th anniversary year of the formation of the Durham Miners Association. Critically acclaimed film-maker, Ken Loach, will read a lesson from the bible during the service. Ken Loach is well known for films that address issues of social justice, in particular the 1969 film Kes and more recently I, Daniel Blake. This year new banners for the Durham Miners’ Association, Horden Lodge and Blackhall Lodge will be blessed by the Bishop of Durham.

As in previous years, the service promises to deliver an energetic and rousing atmosphere, as the procession of colliery brass bands and community banners arrive into the cathedral’s breathtaking Norman Nave. All are welcome to join us; we suggest to arrive early to be seated for this very popular service.