Thousands gather for miners' gala

Many roads will be closed during the Durham Miners' Gala

Up to 50,000 people were expected to attend the 125th annual Durham Miners' Gala on Saturday.

Dozens of colliery lodge banners will be carried through Durham city centre, marking the area's mining heritage.

The so-called "big meeting" will also feature speeches from politicians and union officials gathered at the city's former racecourse.

Among those marching in the parade will be representatives from the threatened Corus steelworks at Redcar, Teesside.

Residents in Durham have been warned to apply for parking permits in advance of the gala or risk their cars being removed.

As usual, a number of roads in and around the city were being closed to all traffic, including pedal cycles, from morning to evening.

Vehicles without permits face removal and a recovery fee of £105.