‘Over the moon’

Yesterday afternoon couldn’t have been very productive in the Home Office as 500 campaigners stood outside banging pots and pans, blowing whistles and shouting out to make some noise for Orgreave.

Unite community members, National Union of Mine Workers memebrs, Orgreave campaigners and other unions united to show Home Secretary Amber Rudd that her decision not to hold an investigation in to the violent policing at the Battle of Orgreave would not silence the mining community.

“I’m just over the moon with the whole event,” said Joe Rollin, Unite organiser and chairperson for the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign.

“The turnout was amazing and our community coordinators were really just fantastic,” he added.

MPs Diane Abbot, Andy Burnham and Richard Burgon all threw their weight behind the campaign and promised a full public enquiry into the violent policing during the yearlong miners’ strike if Labour wins the next general election.

“The best part was the look on the miner’s faces – they were just smiling from ear to ear,” said Joe.

“I don’t think they expected the turn out and the massive showing of support meant so much to them. There were a lot of younger people and seeing the next generation keeping the fight going was quite emotional,” added Joe.

Joe modestly admitted that the make some noise angle for the demonstration was his.

“It did add a great angle and people really went to town bringing trumpets and allsorts,” said Joe.

“It definitely brought a great atmosphere to the demo,” he added.

An Orgreave Truth and Justice benefit gig is taking place on Saturday March 25 at South Kirkby miners’ welfare club to raise vital funds for the campaign.

Photos by Mark Thomas