THE annual May Day march celebrating workers’ rights will be dedicated to former activist Dave Gibson.

Dave was a prolific campaigner and trade union activist who died in July last year, aged 67. He had been suffering from cancer.

He was one of the founders of the Freedom Riders campaign to reinstate free train travel for the elderly and disabled. He had also campaigned for Save Our NHS, Stand Up to Racism, and against fracking as well as a host of other causes.

George Arthur, secretary of Barnsley Trades Union Council, said: “This May Day is a poignant time for the trades union council. Last year was our first march and rally for a number of years. It was masterminded by the then secretary, Dave Gibson.

“Sadly Dave died soon after that demonstration. He was a very active and much respected trade unionist and campaigner in our area. Our May Day march this year is dedicated to his memory.”

Marchers will assemble tomorrow on Eastgate at 11.30am, and will be addressed by Barnsley East MP Stephanie Peacock before they set off at noon, marching through the town centre to a rally in Peel Square. The march will be led by the Unite Brass Band.

Ian Hodson, president of the Bakers’ Union, will speak about the latest strikes at McDonald’s. Also speaking will be John Dunn from the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign, which is campaigning for the government to hold an inquiry into the police attacks on miners in 1984.

George said: “Now is a momentous time to be holding a May Day March and rally. “We’ve seen five government ministers resign in six months. More workers are taking action to defend jobs and conditions at work. Perhaps May might see the end of May.”

Wayne Gilmore, chairman of Barnsley Trades Union Council, said: “May Day is the traditional workers’ day. It is a chance to celebrate the work of trade unions fighting for decent wages and working conditions. It is also a chance to celebrate all the activities of campaign groups like Save Our NHS, Stop Fracking, Stand Up to Racism and so on. As a member of Unite the Union I’m proud that our brass band will lead the demonstration.”

The May Day march will be followed by the Festival of Solidarity at the Old School House on Blackburn Lane and will feature music, poets and a Marxist magician.