Hundreds march through Middlesbrough

Over 500 people joined the Middlesbrough March for the Alternative on Saturday 27 April, to protest against the government's failed economic austerity measures and the disproportionate impact on Teesside and the North East. Organised by the Tees Valley Public Services Alliance, the well-supported event drew attention to the 43,000 public sector jobs lost in the region since the election, and to the worst levels of unemployment and child poverty in the UK. Residents applauded marchers from trade unions, bedroom tax campaigners and community groups on the parade through the centre of town, which was followed by a rally in Centre Square. Speakers at the rally, including Labour MP for Middlesbrough Andy McDonald, argued for a clear alternative to government cuts, based on investment, jobs and growth.

Helen Metcalf of UNISON and the Tees Valley PSA said 'We haven't done anything on this scale before in Teesside, and were delighted with the support we received. I'd like to thank all the speakers, as well as those that joined in the march for making this such a successful event. '