Durham Miners Gala 2022

Huddersfield and Ripponden Band (plus guests) had an early start on Saturday 9 July 2022 when they headed to Durham Miners’ Gala.

This year’s gala was dedicated to all key workers and was set to be the largest gala since 1984-85 following two years of cancellations due to Covid-19.

The band arrived at Seaham to a very warm welcome and marched to the miners’ memorial gardens where we played the miners’ hymn Gresford to remember the victims of colliery disasters.

After making our way into Durham centre, along with over 50 other bands, we snaked our way through the narrow streets leading the Seaham Lodge banner, entertaining the crowds with traditional marches and more contemporary pieces. The focal point of the parade was at the County Hotel where local dignitaries and invited guests greeted the bands from balcony. Here we played ‘Freed From Desire’ amongst huge and appreciative crowds.

Have a look at our YouTube video showing highlights of the day https://youtu.be/0DlHLR-IPno