1:32pm Wednesday 16th July 2008
A NEW book about the Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival is being launched in the run up to this year's event.
The 136-page colour book is called My Tolpuddle'. It tells the history of the festival through the eyes of revellers and guests.
The book includes introductions from Billy Bragg and Tony Benn.
It includes anecdotes and memories of the event from a range of people including government ministers, Liberty director Shami Chakrabarti and the band Chumbawamba.
Editor Tim Lezard said: "I've been to festivals all over the world and nothing compares to Tolpuddle.
"I'm a huge fan of the festival. It has a very relaxed feel and is such a great mix of music, politics, drama, poetry, speeches and solidarity."
Mr Lezard works in Gloucestershire and is a media officer for the South West Trades Union Congress (TUC) which organises the festival.
He said the book was in the style of a scrapbook, filled with anecdotes and memories collected at last year's festival.
It will be on sale at the festival for £9.95.
Mr Lezard said: "This book goes some way to capturing the unique spirit of the event, thanks to the contributions of artists, performers, politicians and most importantly trade unionists."
Thousands of people are expected to attend the free Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Highlights at this year's event will include the Levellers, members of The Alabama 3 band and comedian Mark Steel.
The festival has a strong international flavour with speakers from South Africa, Australia and the United States.
Investigative food journalist Joanna Blythman will take part in a workshop explaining the way food and drink is produced and there will be an open mic' session for budding musicians. Festival organiser Nigel Costley commented: "It's arguably our most ambitious and varied programme yet, with something for everyone.
"That people are coming from far and wide to speak and perform here shows just how important and vibrant the trade union movement remains in this country."
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