Inspirational tributes paid to former Tolpuddle stalwarts Tony Benn and Bob Crow sparked a standing ovation yesterday as the biggest martyrs festival in decades finished in a rousing rally.

A roar rebounded around the Dorset countryside as thousands of trade unionists rose in memory of the labour movement heroes who passed away within days of each other in March.

Emily Benn described how her grandfather “loved the history” of the event to remember the sacrifice of the six Toldpuddle Martyrs.