TRADE unionists from across the country descended on Cradley Heath for the Women Chainmakers’ Festival this weekend.

Politicians, singers, entertainers and unionists shared the platform at the event in Bearmore Park after a march from Mary Macarthur Gardens on Saturday.

Tony Barnsley, Sandwell UNISON publicity officer, said: “It was pleasing to see over 500 gather in Mary Macarthur Memorial Gardens to see the unveiling of the monument.

“And it was even more fitting that around 400 trade unionists, led by a brass band and school children, marched through Cradley Heath High Street just like the women chainmakers and their children did in 1910 when they went on strike.

“The day was a fitting tribute to their historic strike victory that saw the women double their wage and establish the minimum wage for the first time in Britain.

“Cradley Heath should be proud of it's history and now there is at last a permanent reminder of this historic strike victory to replace the Workers Institute.”

He added: “Hopefully the festival will become an annual fixture for everyone in Cradley Heath, the Black Country and the trade union movement to enjoy for years to come.“ Former Halesowen and Rowley Regis Sylvia Heal made a speech at the festival bemoaning the plight of women in today’s economy.

She said: “This is a great event and I was delighted to see so many old friends here.”