RMT pays tribute to miners strike legend Ken Capstick

RMT pays tribute to miners strike legend Ken Capstick

18 January 2025

RMT Press Office:

Ken Capstick - the former National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Yorkshire area vice president has died.

Mr Capstick played a key role in the Battle of Saltley Gate in 1972 and subsequently during the miners strike in 1984/5 as part of the union’s leadership. 
 
Paying tribute to Mr Capstick, Mick Lynch, RMT General Secretary, said:
 
“On behalf of all of us in RMT, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ken Capstick. 
 
“Ken was one of the finest trade unionists of his generation, an NUM stalwart who put himself on the frontline during the miners strike and dedicated his life to the fight for workers’ rights. His tireless commitment and unwavering resolve are an example to us all.
 
“Ken stood shoulder to shoulder with us on RMT picket lines during the national rail strike in 2022, showing his steadfast support for our members and their fight for fair pay and decent conditions. Ken played a pivotal role in the Battle of Saltley Gate, a defining moment in our movement’s history and one that embodied his lifelong commitment to trade union action.
 
“Ken’s legacy will inspire trade unionists going forward, to take up the fight for dignity, and justice in the workplace and in our communities. His contribution to our movement will never be forgotten.”

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