Billy Bragg to perform as part of Durham Miners' Gala

Billy Bragg, pictured here performing at the Wylam Brewery in Newcastle late last year, is set to return to the North East to play Durham Miners' Gala. Photo by Gary Welford.

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Singer songwriter and political activist Billy Bragg is to play a free gig at this year's Durham Miners' Gala.

The organisers of the Big Meeting, which will be held on Saturday, July 14, say he will perform a free concert for the crowd on the Racecourse following on from the speakers.

Those lined up to give speeches include Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry.

Bragg, whose songs include A New England, Must I Paint You A Picture and There Is Power in a Union, is known for bringing together folk music, punk rock and protest songs in his work.

A spokesman for the Durham Miners' Association (DMA), which runs the annual event, said: "We are delighted to announce that the fantastic Billy Bragg will be performing at this year's Durham Miners' Gala.

"Billy will play a set on the platform following the speeches at the Big Meeting.

"Many thanks to Billy for all his support for the Gala for many years."

Bragg is scheduled to play at 3pm.

The annual service as part of the day will see the miners' banners marched up to Durham Cathedral, led by brass bands, at 2.40pm, with a blessing of the banners to be held.

More details about what to expect on the day can be found here: Durham Miners’ Gala 2018: Everything you need to know about this year’s event.The DMA's Facebook page can be found here.