The procession began with crowds assembling at 10.30am at Rose Hill before a march to the rally in New Square – with campaign banners being paraded with full enthusiasm.
This was the 45th year of the Gala and celebrates the achievements and culture of working people throughout the world. The march was led by the Ireland Colliery Band and the PCS (Public and Commercial Services Union) and Extinction Rebellion samba bands.
Among the keynote speakers were Sarah Woolley, general secretary of the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers' Union, Barbara Plant, president of the GMB, San Senik, Kurdish community activist and member of the ASLEF union, Kevin Courtney, general secretary of the National Education Union, and MP for Chesterfield Toby Perkins.
5. Chesterfield May Day Gala 2023
The procession began at 10.30am and led from Rose Hill to New Square Photo: Nick Rhodes
6. Chesterfield May Day Gala 2023
Among the groups that were represented at the rally were members of Extinction Rebellion and the GMB union Photo: Nick Rhodes
7. Chesterfield May Day Gala 2023
Campaign banners were out on display as the procession entered the town centre Photo: Nick Rhodes
8. Chesterfield May Day Gala 2023
Banners on display included some pro-Communist messaging Photo: Nick Rhodes