The Tolpuddle Martyrs were sentenced to penal transportation to Australia in 1834 for “unlawful oaths” after forming a friendly society for agricultural workers.
South West England Branch NUJ is offering a sweeter journey to Dorset to join a friendly society of members at the Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival.
The branch has booked a stall on the Festival site from 17-19 July 2026. Andy Linington, branch link person for the event, sees it as a great opportunity to raise NUJ issues such as AI and threats to the BBC at a festival that attracts thousands of people and where the South West Branch effectively represents the whole union.
But Tolpuddle above all is a FESTIVAL – with Mark Thomas (“turns comedy into a weapon”), singers, bands, rappers and poets. The music line-up includes The People’s Army Rap Collective, Rioghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet, Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes and Maddie Morris
See the full line-up here https://www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk/full-programme
The branch has set aside a sum to support members working on the union’s behalf , including transport costs, tickets (£65) and camping (£35 for a tent site).
Those who went last year, including branch chair Ray Tostevin, are enthusiastic about the impact made by a small group of NUJ members. This is an ideal opportunity for student journalists and those who have just got started in journalism, as well as mid-career members and oldies.
To find out how to join the NUJ team at Tolpuddle, contact Andy Linington at linington28@gmail.com