After years hidden away, Oldham’s memorial to six local volunteers who died fighting fascism in the Spanish civil war has been restored to public view, marking both a victory for campaigners and a renewed tribute to the town’s proud International Brigade heritage, says ROB HARGREAVES
AS much as I’d like to lay claim to being a cultured follower of Shakespeare, I’m not. I am aware, however, of some of the famous quotes from his work, and one in particular often makes me think of Jeremy Corbyn: “Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
I don’t need to point out which version of greatness best relates to Corbyn, the humblest politician in Parliament.
Corbyn was often thought of as the reluctant leader. He decided to throw his hat in the ring in 2015, not to reach the next obvious rung on the ladder of career progression, or to revel in watching himself back after gruelling interviews or PMQs. He did it for us.
With ‘Your Party’ holding its founding conference in Liverpool this weekend, JEREMY CORBYN speaks to Morning Star editor Ben Chacko about its potential, its priorities — and a few of its controversies too
Durham Miners’ Association general secretary ALAN MARDGHUM speaks to Ben Chacko ahead of Gala Day 2025
While Reform poses as a workers’ party, a credible left alternative rooted in working-class communities would expose their sham — and Corbyn’s stature will be crucial to its appeal, argues CHELLEY RYAN



