TRADE unionists are gearing up for one of the biggest events of their history.

This year’s Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival marks 175 years since six farm workers from Dorset were arrested for fighting against starvation wages and forming a union.

Each year since 1934 a rally has marked the sacrifice and the campaign that freed them.

This year’s event has the usual mix of speakers and musicians, including Billy Bragg, who is making his return after a year away.

Dorset acts include Who’s Afear’d and folk favourites Jigsaw, while worldwide flavours come from a mix of Balkan, Russian, Baltic, gypsy and many other acts.

Festival organiser Keith Hatch said: “Each year we wonder how we can build on the previous event.

“This year we have a great lineup on the main stage, not only musically, but with speakers including Tony Benn.

“We have another great line-up, including the Cuban dance sounds of Racices Cubanas, singer David Ferrard and agit-folk from The Clay Faces.”

As well as the music and speaker there will be stalls, a children’s area and workshops throughout the event, which runs between July 17 and 19.

Mr Hatch added: “Bristol Radical History Group re-enacting a Swing Riot, bangra workshops, a storyteller and a solar powered DJ are just some of the things happening.

“With the global economy in turmoil and people being worried about how to pay the bills, the Martyrs’ example of organising together is as relevant as it’s ever been.

“It’s their courage, and the national campaign that freed and brought them home, that we commemorate each year.”

For more information, call the South West TUC on 0117 947 0521 or visit tuc.org.uk/tolpuddle