Saturday 12th, July - Durham Miners' Gala
It was good to see at least a dozen members of the NMMA plus several other mining memorabilia collectors at this years unofficial meeting at the "Durham Big Meet". As well as local members others had travel from as far away as Burton-on-Trent and even Bristol. John Kitching yet again had a great display of North Eastern mining memorabilia in the main marquee. In addition it was good to see the return of at least three stands selling mining lamps, checks and badges not to mention the odd check or two. The Durham Mining Museum also had a very good stand selling there now famous range of Durham related mining history books in addition to a newly commissioned and very comprehensive range of authentically reproduced historic colliery disaster reports. At least Three NMMA members entered onto the main field accompanying various banners. John Kitching came on with the new Browney Lodge Banner, Matty Kitchen arrived with the Kellingley Colliery Banner and last but not least Warwick Taylor with the Bevin Boys Banner. The weather was scorching and a great day was had by all who attended. Maybe next year we will make this an official NMMA meeting?
Warwick Taylor with other Bevin Boys.
A three way check & badge swap - From left to right: Ken Kent, John Soppitt and Matty Kitchen.
A general view of this years "Big Meet" at Durham.