A set of rare badges reflecting one of the most turbulent times in trade union history is to be auctioned to raise cash for cancer sufferers.

The 29 enamel badges belong to Martin Emmerson, who spent 19 months on strike 22 years ago in the Silentnight dispute at Sutton.

He became a shop steward and was groomed to become an area official for the Furniture Timber and Allied Trade Union.

“The badges reflect my interest at the time. I got very involved although I have different views now.

“But then I supported the miners’ strike and took food parcels for them to Wales. I met top officials and MP supporters and spoke on platforms,” said Mr Emmerson, 52, who now runs a market stall selling slippers and shoes.

“Many of these badges are very rare now and are collectable, especially those connected to the miners’ strike.”

He plans to donate the money to Martin House, the hospice for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses.

And to raise more cash, he and his wife, Patricia, plan to run the Jane Tomlinson 10k in Leeds next year.

Anyone interested in bidding for the badges or wanting to know more details should phone Mr Emmerson on 0798 610 3369.