A SUMMER celebration aims to thank key workers who kept the country running through the pandemic and are doing the same again in the cost-of-living crisis.

And organisers hope it’s second time lucky as their last event had to be cancelled due to rain.

Dorset Trade Union Council is inviting everyone to join them on Saturday, July 30 for a Unions’ Summer Celebration in Dorchester, with music, speakers and much more.

Dorset TUC is organising the free event in Dorchester’s Borough Gardens as a thank-you to key workers. The event runs from 10.30am to 5pm and will feature bands, poets, speakers, stalls, food and drink.

Music on the day will be provided by bands and musicians including Negra Santa, John D Revelator, Shannon White, Dylan Ross, Mustafa Musto and Tijuana – and it all kicks off with Bridport-based choir Dorset Red.

Jenny Lennon-Wood, Dorset TUC secretary, extended a warm welcome to everyone to go along and enjoy themselves.

She said: “Sadly, our May Day was rained off, but Dorset TUC wanted to hold a free family-friendly event that highlights the role of key workers over recent years and thank them for their work – so we decided to move it to July for a Unions’ Summer Celebration.

“We are inviting everyone, from across Dorset and beyond, to come along and join us.”

John Burbridge from the Unite union’s Tolpuddle branch added: “Dorset is the birthplace of rural trade unionism and what better place to have a free day out to celebrate unions and the role of food workers in keeping the country going throughout the pandemic.”

As well as music there will be speakers from trade unions and local campaign groups. There will also be some fantastic food available along with a fully stocked bar from the Convivial Rabbit.

Amanda Brown, Dorset Unison branch secretary, said: “The key workers in the NHS, social care, schools, councils, the food sector, transport and other areas have kept Britain running and we want to celebrate their work, determination and courage with a chance to dance, laugh, be inspired and gather with friends.

“The Summer Celebration in Borough Gardens will be a wonderful day, and we’d love you to join us.”