TRADE union banners were marched through Derby on Saturday in honour of workers involved in Britain’s first major industrial dispute — the Silk Mill Lockout.

In 1833, workers at a Silk Mill struck after the mill’s “master” sacked a worker for refusing to pay a fine for “shoddy work.”

The factory’s workers walked out and were followed by workers from other factories until 2,400 were out. The dispute lasted a year and, along with Tolpuddle, became part of Britain’s labour and trade union history.

Hundreds took part in the march which wound from Derby Market Square to the festival site at Cathedral Green.

Banners included Unite, Unite Community, National Education Union, Derby Area Trade Union Council and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

Speakers at the rally which followed the march included Fire Brigades Union general secretary Matt Wrack.