MORE than a thousand cheering, chanting demonstrators took to the streets of Southampton to denounce the government of Margaret Thatcher.
The lunch-time march through the city centre, which took place on May 14, 1980, proved to be a good-natured, boisterous protest in the warm spring sunshine.
The march was part of the Trade Union Congress’ “Day of Action” during which trade unionists declared their opposition to the Government’s entire programme.
After handing in a petition to the city’s mayor, the marchers headed for a rally in Hoglands Park, where local trade union leaders spoke to the crowd.
Another rally took place that morning on Eastleigh recreation ground and included teachers, ambulancemen, engineers, local government officers, metal workers and members of Eastleigh Trades Council.
Many of the protestors went to Southampton in the afternoon to join the demonstration.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel