Recreating
NUM Banner.

Most Mining Trade Union branches had banners that depicted the pit and often reflected the politics of the time. These symbolic objects were proudly paraded by mineworkers, family members, union officials and civic dignitaries.

The banners, consisting of painted and embroidered designs, incorporated socialist iconography, political slogans and stories related to individual collieries and communities.

In 1982 North Staffordshire Miners’ Federation helped fund raise to create the National Union of Mineworkers North Staffs District banner and commissioned it being made.

The original banner is now housed with the National Union of Mineworkers in Barnsley.

Textile artist Rachel Ballard was commissioned to research reproducing the original banner. The banner was then reproduced by Past Pixels.

The banner has been used at events, such as the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Saltley Gate and the pickets for pension changes, pay and working conditions for staff at Keele University.

The replica banner will be on display at Apedale Heritage Centre from April 2022.