Life before profit - this seemed to be the underlying message of the day.

The intermittent blustery showers did little to deter those intent on celebrating Simon Jones’ birthday while reminding the Crown Prosecution Service, and in turn the world in general, that his case - like too many others - is yet unresolved and will not be swept under the carpet.

Nothing can bring back the 218 people killed at work last year, but if the CPS heeds the need for a firm sentence recognising corporate responsibility, a ripple of remorse or at least of discouragement could be sent among reckless employers (who cut corners at the expense of the safety, and so inevitably sometimes the lives of their workforce).

The steps of St Paul’s were buzzing as banners unfolded, flags and balloons flapped and leaflets were handed out in front of an entourage of press. The Tragic Roundabouts treated the revelling protesters and everybody there to a live set before meandering towards the CPS building only yards away.

A minute’s silence was held and the balloons, each one representing one of the people killed at work last year, were released. A wickedly feisty Tragic Roundabout – samba – Head Mix Collective musical extravaganza ensued, the local bagel bar boy mingled with nibbles, Simon’s aunt (whose birthday it was also) with a delectable birthday cake, the carnival masks and smiley up-for-it people all went towards creating the excellent atmosphere. However, the police were, from my perspective, overly forceful and aggressive in their tactics to contain our blatantly unthreatening peaceful protest. (SEE VIDEO CLIP OF ARREST: Remove the Storm Trooper uniform and who would seem more likely an instigator of an affray?!)

The road wide banner provided a united front and some protection from police shoves, although unfortunately one friend was still singled out and aggressively arrested by a particularly rude and irate officer (if you are reading this Officer, I am completing a degree at present…what makes you think I’m not educated?). After nearly four hours to confirm his address, our friend was charged with Affray (we are still waiting to hear which one!), before being released.


After a beautifully noisy few hours of chaos the party moved to as close to the police station, where our friend was held, as our righteous stewards would allow us. The tunes played on making dancing irresistible as we expressed our displeasure at the arrest of our friend: perhaps leading from their negative preconceptions of anyone that speaks out.

Enthused, empowered
People partying,
Dancing deep in the
Belly of the Beast
Demanding decency and
Respect, regardless….

Full power. Thank you friends.