n By Keith Hatch


Martyrs, but I think in some respects our campaign continues that tradition of support and fraternity.


“The people we are campaigning about claim social security due to long term sickness, disability, caring


responsibilities and low wages. These families are not being threatened with deportation but they are deliberately being pushed into poverty by a ruling class who know it will have a


Graveside – Steve Leniec lays wreath for Unite’s agri workers


profoundly negative personal, financial and health impact.”


“Victory to the Birmingham bin


strikers,” he concluded.


With Matt’s words ringing in people's ears the procession began forming, led by banners


from Unite’s Tolpuddle Branch and Unite South


h – Unite’s mingham ker


West.


The front of the march was a sea of sky-blue Unite t-shirts bearing the slogan "Social security is a trade union issue", and, with the band and Unite banners, including the new regional one at its first Tolpuddle, led hundreds of trade unionists through Tolpuddle.


The t-shirts, organised by Unite members and disabled campaigners, were commissioned by Unite South West specially for the march, with logos of both DPAC (Disabled People Against Cuts) and Unite South West.


Andy Mitchell, from the DPAC national steering group and Unite national community forum, marched with the Unite bloc, “It may seem like a million miles away to connect our campaign against disability benefit cuts with that of the Tolpuddle


Clarion call – Unite brass band on the march


Unite regional secretary Steve Preddy felt that this year was a tremendous success, with the Unite Marquee rarely quiet.


Steve said, “We enjoyed record numbers of visitors, signing up to campaigns,


Family time – all are welcome


Andy found the whole experience of such solidarity emotional, and said, “It brought a tear to my eye seeing the band heading the procession wearing the t-shirts."


including the Birmingham bin strike, opposing attacks on benefits, and others.”


“The link with DPAC was very well received. Unite’s Stroud Red Band leading the parade, in addition to multiple Unite members and volunteers all wearing the sky-blue t-shirts created a stunning visual impression.”


Steve thanked everyone involved in another fantastic year, saying the festival was, “A huge tribute to everyone who planned and volunteered over the weekend.


“You are amazing.”


All photos: Mark Thomas


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