‘Marra’ is a Durham miners’ term for a trusted friend or workmate who can be relied on in times of need.
The Durham Miners' Gala, often known locally as ‘The Big Meeting’, is one of the world’s largest celebrations of trade union, community and working-class heritage with over 200,000 participants.
First held in 1871, the Gala was created by the Durham Miners’ Association (DMA) as an annual gathering of miners, families and communities from across the coalfield. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of solidarity, identity and pride, bringing together tens of thousands of people each year in Durham City. The 140th Durham Miners’ Gala will take place on Saturday 11 July 2026.
The Gala is renowned for its spectacular procession of miners’ banners, brass bands and community groups, alongside speeches, cultural events and celebrations that honour the legacy of the Durham coalfield. More than a historical event, the Gala continues to be a living tradition that connects past struggles with present-day community values.
For Redhills, the historic home of the DMA, the Gala represents a key moment in the annual calendar and an opportunity to welcome visitors from across the region and beyond.
This year, the Gala will host the first ‘Redhills Village’, a cultural zone of activities with the famous Tea Tent at its heart.
Volunteers are essential in helping visitors navigate the event, supporting smooth operations, promoting Redhills and Gala activities, and ensuring a welcoming, positive, safe, memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
To support the successful delivery of Durham Miners’ Gala activities through e.g. visitor support, event logistics, merchandise sales, catering support and social media promotion.
There are a number of different Gala volunteer roles to choose from:
Social Media Support Volunteers
Duties:
Support social media activity in the two weeks leading up to gala by researching guest speakers and notable attendees, drafting short biographies and promotional posts with photographs - supporting online engagement and visibility.
Requirements:
• good written communication skills
• social media confidence
• interest in heritage, events or communications
Merch Stand Volunteers
Duties:
Help to sell merchandise and handle customer enquiries during the Gala.
• use card readers and assist with transactions
• maintain stock presentation and display
• promote Marras membership or activities
Requirements:
• friendly and approachable manner
• basic confidence handling payments (or willingness to learn as training provided on card reader use)
Gala Visitor Information Volunteers
Duties:
• provide directions and answer visitor questions during the Gala
• hand out maps of the racecourse
Requirements:
• good communication skills
• comfortable standing/walking outdoors
Tea Tent Volunteers
Duties:
• help serve refreshments such as tea, coffee and light snacks
• welcome and assist visitors using the tea tent
• support with cash or card transactions
• maintain cleanliness, hygiene and stock levels within the tent
• assist with setting up and packing down the tea tent area
Requirements:
• comfortable working in a busy public-facing environment
• basic confidence handling food and drink service (training provided)
• awareness of hygiene and cleanliness standards
• comfortable standing for periods of time
• ability to work well within a team
Experience in hospitality or customer service is helpful but not essential.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, and especially those who are:
• friendly and approachable
• reliable and punctual
• confident communicating with the public
• comfortable working in busy event environments
• interested in heritage, community or events
• willing to work as part of a team
No prior experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved, as training and guidance will be provided.
The Gala will be held on Saturday 11 July 2026
• flexible shifts
• pre-event roles available for social media volunteers
The Old Racecourse, Durham City centre.
Volunteers will receive:
• event induction
• health & safety briefing
• role-specific guidance
• site maps and practical information
• staff support throughout
• opportunities to learn new systems and skills
• refreshments
• Option of an exclusive staff/volunteer Redhills t-shirt.
Be part of one of the UK’s most significant cultural events:
• contribute directly to the success of a major celebration of community and heritage
• gain event, customer service or communications experience
• play a role in preserving and celebrating coalfield culture
• build confidence in a professional environment
• enhance your CV and employability
• meet new people and build community connections
• join a welcoming and supportive staff and volunteer team.
You will help ensure the Gala survives and thrives, and is here to inspire generations to come.
Exclusive Redhills staff/volunteer t-shirt.
This event is outdoors on a field and so reasonable mobility is required.
The Old
There are many different ways to get involved at the Gala and at Redhills. If you have particular interests or skills, we are happy to explore a role that suits you.
Lived experience is valued and warmly welcomed, but you don’t need any connection to coal mining to be part of the team. Redhills also celebrates its rich political and social history while operating today as a non-political charity, open to people from all backgrounds and perspectives.
https://www.friendsofdurhamminersgala.org/
