Thousands gathered for the annual May Day parade which started in Clerkenwell Green before ending in Trafalgar Square on Wednesday.

May 1 is also known as International Workers’ Day and hundreds of trade unionists and members of various political organisations gathered to hear speeches and wave banners.

Clerkenwell Green is a historical spot for radical and socialist politics and houses the Marx Memorial Library.

The Venezuelan ambassador to Britain, Rocío Del Valle Maneiro González, gave a speech asking the gathered crowd to support the current president, Nicolás Maduro, who is facing an ongoing coup attempt.

Mick Gilgunn, who chairs Islington Trades Union Council, said it was “important” for workers and ordinary people to mark the day. This tradition stretches back way over a century and a half,” he said.

“It’s celebrated all through America. It’s not just about workers’ rights but human rights. Trade unions are important to support various campaigns locally and internationally.”

• Keywords
  MAY DAY, PARADES, POLITICAL MEETINGS, EMPLOYEES, TRADE UNIONS
• Geographical keyword
  CLERKENWELL GREEN
• Persons keyword
  Marx Memorial Library, Islington Trades Union Council