STRIKING workers are inspiring millions to demand better, the leader of the bakers’ union told the annual Silk Mill march and rally in Derby on Saturday.

Hundreds of trade unionists from across the East Midlands joined the annual festival to commemorate the Derby lockout of 1833-34, which led to the formation of the Grand National Consolidated Trades Union, the first national trade union with revolutionary intent.

The speakers included general secretary of the Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union Sarah Woolley, GMB senior regional organiser Gill Ogilvie, Fraser McGuire of Unite Hospitality branch and Derby RMTchair Neil Wilkinson.

The rally was chaired by long-time communist and trade union activist Moz Greenshields. 

Ms Woolley said the festival lets “the world know trade unions are still here and that we are loud and proud and will continue to be the voice of working people and fight for our members and our class — regardless of what the Tories try to do to us.

“Solidarity to each and every one of you who are in dispute; to those that thought it was over, dig deep — we are behind you and stand with you.

“You are all inspiring millions of other working people to demand better and are fighting not only for your rights but to protect them for future generations.

“We have a lot of work to do but when we come together we are strong and can bring about real change.”

Ms Ogilvie said: “It’s absolutely disgusting that in the UK, the fifth richest economy in the world, there are more foodbanks than McDonald’s.” 

After paying tribute to workers at Amazon fighting for trade union recognition, he added: “We must fight to stop greedy unscrupulous employers and never stop standing up against injustice and oppression.”