Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival and Rally 2006

Organised by the TUC, this festival is mostly free, beginning with the Opening Night Party on Friday with Sam Duckworth, Hightown Crows and Three Daft Monkeys.

Saturday brings afternoon speakers plus Graham Moore hosting an Open Mic session in the bar with traditional and contemporary musicians, singers, poets and stand-ups. In the evening from 7pm, is The Demon Barber Roadshow with special guests(tickets - £10). There will also be workshops and discussion groups all day plus ethical trading and lots of kids' activities.

Sunday starts at 11am with Jon Gray, Chair of the South West TUC opening the celebrations followed by music from Bleeding Hearts and then The Yetties, a speech from Gloria Mills, TUC President at 12.30pm, then music from Susheela Raman, followed by the laying of wreaths on James Hammett's grave in St John’s Church and the Grand Procession afternoon parade led by The Great Western Marching Jazz Band.

Guest Speakers at 3pm include Shami Chakrabarti, Director of Liberty; Brendan Barber, TUC General Secretary, and Tony Benn followed by music from African band, Freshlyground, and more radical dissent from Billy Bragg. There will also be music throughout the day in the Martyrs Marquee until around 5pm. For line-up details, click here.

CAMPING
Space is very limited and costs £25 for a small tent, £35 for larger tents and campervans. If you are planning to camp with friends, travel together, as spaces are allocated on arrival. Hot showers and breakfasts are available. No cars on the campsite.

Car Parking
Sunday parking charges: £5 per car, £20 for coaches.
Friday & Saturday only: £2(campers free).

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