Burston Strike School Rally 2011 - Solidarity Forever

Almost a thousand people gathered on a small village green in Burston, South Norfolk, to celebrate the longest strike in history - when pupils and their parents rose in support of their teachers, sacked for their socialist beliefs.

The Burston Rally 2011, was again well attended by trade unionists from across the country. Despite the forecast for heavy rain, the weather was fine until late afternoon and did not dampen the spirits of those who attended and enjoyed a full programme of speakers and entertainment including - Diana Holland Unite AGS, Kelvin Hopkins MP for Luton, John Hegley, Red Flags, Robb Johnson and the Irregulars.

The main theme for the day was - Support the NHS, the wholesale condemnation of the Health and Social Care Bill, and the Con Dem Government's attempts to destroy the NHS.

The UNISON stall was extremely popular, giving out free T shirts with the messages " Help wanted - Save our NHS" and "Bankers forgot to mention - they spent all your pension". By early afternoon people of all ages from 2 to 92 were wearing their T shirts with pride.

One unexpected and welcome supporter was Dave Rowntree (drummer in Blur) who said as a first time visitor he enjoyed the unique and friendly atmosphere of the rally - and of course, left wearing his UNISON T shirt!