UNEMPLOYMENT and anti-racist activities are spearheading a "summer of solidarity" being staged by Bury trade unionists.

Throughout the campaign, organisers will be highlighting the services offered by Bury Unemployed Workers' Centre as well as raising cash towards its running costs.

The "Summer of Solidarity" has been launched by Bury, Radcliffe and District Trades Union Council (TUC) and Bury Unemployed Workers' Association.

The spotlight will also be thrown on casual labour which will be the subject of a major conference.

There will be regular street activities, including harnessing support for workers sacked by Darlington-based trade DIY firm, Magnet.

This includes a delegation from Bury travelling to County Durham for a workers' march and rally.

Next month will also see local trade unionists involved in a week-long series of anti-racist activities to coincide with Mick Luft from the anti-fascist magazine "Searchlight" addressing the Bury TUC at the end of September.

Next Tuesday at 7.30pm, Bury Unemployed Workers' Centre will host a public meeting featuring Barry Navarro from the Low Pay Unit, speaking on the subject: "Know your rights."

On Saturday, September 20, the Waterloo Hotel in Manchester Road, Bury, is the venue for a "Casualisation of Labour" conference.

Mr Brian Marden, secretary of Bury TUC, explained: "The 'Summer of Solidarity' is aimed primarily at raising the profile of Bury Unemployed Workers' Centre and also to keep the criminal levels of unemployment in the public eye.

"Additionally, it is a way of developing solidarity between those out of work with those in work - particularly those who are forced into working in 'sweatshops'."

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