Dorset Trade Union Council (TUC) is hosting a Unions' Summer Celebration in Dorchester this weekend - and everyone's invited.

Dorset TUC is organising the free event in Dorchester's Borough Gardens as a thank you to key workers. The event takes place on Saturday, July 30 from 10.30am to 5pm and will feature bands, poets, speakers, food and drink along with stalls and more.

Music on the day will be provided by bands and musicians, such as Theo Muzi & Banda, John D Revelator, Shannon White, Dylan Ross, Mustafa Musto and Tijuana - with it all kicking off with Bridport-based choir Dorset Red.

As well as music there will be speakers from unions and local campaign groups, including Unite South West regional secretary Steve Preddy and UNISON's Becky Brookman.

Jenny Lennon-Wood, Dorset TUC secretary, said: "Dorset TUC is holding a free family friendly event that highlights the role of key workers over recent years, and thank them for their work.

"We are inviting everyone from across Dorset and beyond, to come along and join us on Saturday for the first Unions' Summer Celebration."

John Burbridge from Unite's Tolpuddle branch said: "Dorset is the birthplace of rural trade unionism, and what better place to have a free day out to celebrate unions and the role of food workers in keeping the country going throughout the pandemic."

There will also be food available from Claire's Country Kitchen, along with a bar from Convivial Rabbit, face painting from Diamond Faces and a large snakes and ladders game from Unite Community.

Amanda Brown, Dorset UNISON branch secretary, said: "The key workers in the NHS, social care, schools, councils, food sector, transport and other areas have kept Britain running, and we want to celebrate their work, determination and courage with a chance to dance, laugh, be inspired and gather with friends.

"The Summer Celebration in Borough Gardens will be like a mini Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival and a wonderful day, we'd love you to join us."