Everyone at the DMA was saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Melvin.
The former miner was a tireless and inspirational campaigner for his community and one of the greatest champions of the Durham Miners Gala.
Born in 1944, Bob worked at Herrington Pit from the age of 15 until his retirement in the wake of the 1984-85 strike.
Together with his wife Pat, Bob worked tirelessly to ensure the proud legacy of coal mining continued in his community. They were central to the formation and success of the banner group and are the reason that more than 100 people continue to travel into Durham from Herrington on the second Saturday in July.
Bob will be sadly missed to his family and many friends and to the community not just in Herrington but the surrounding villages. Bob also remained a proud and committed trade unionist throughout his life. The condolences of the DMA go to Pat, to sons Graham and Neil, to grandson Jamie and to all Bob’s family and friends.
The DMA will be represented at Bob’s funeral at St Michael's Church, Houghton-le-Spring on Wednesday 15 February beginning at 12 noon.