CIRC 017: DURHAM MINERS GALA AND TOLPUDDLE FESTIVAL 2026

Durham Miners Gala

This takes place on Saturday 11 July 2026. The POA have had a presence at the Gala for many years. It is a unique and inspiring spectacle. We are taking expressions of interest from Branch Officials and members who wish to attend so that we can book the necessary accommodation at the event.

If you wish to attend please send expressions of interest to Angela Sinclair - asone@poauk.org.uk no later than Friday 3 April 2026, so that the NEC can determine the numbers in advance please. Obviously accommodation gets booked up very quickly so it is essential that if you do wish to be considered for attending that you respond to this circular by the given date as no other applications will be accepted after the closing date.

Tolpuddle Festival

The following week is the Tolpuddle Festival from Friday 17 – Sunday 19 July 2026 and again the POA for many years have attended the festival in Dorset. If any Branch Official or member wishes to show an expression of interest the same closing date applies as above.

I look forward to branches showing a proactive interest in attending. No facility time will be granted as both the Gala and Festival are trade union activities and not trade union duties so annual leave will have to be taken should you wish to attend.

Yours sincerely

STEVE GILLAN
General Secretary