I arrived just after 10 o'clock and people were already gathering, collecting badges, flags and banners. The stewards were in place, the people of Chelmsford were curious and the sun was shining.

For the next hour and half the numbers continued to increase. There were young teachers just starting their career, there were experienced teachers who could be effected by the proposed pension changes and there were teachers already retired but determined to add their support. The sun was shining.

I met and talked to teachers that I have known for many years and others that I have only known for a short time. The mix of people was a clear indicator that every teacher was opposed to the changes that were being suggested by the Government. The sun was shining.

The march moved off to rally in the Baptist Church down the road and to hear speeches from representative from all the trade unions taking part in the action. Banners were held high, flags waved and whistles were blown. The sun was shining.

The crowd just about fitted in, all 350 seats in the hall were full and members standing at the back, and the Chair of the meeting introduced the speakers and allowed them to make their point on our behalf. There was the NUT, the ATL, the UCU and Chelmsford Trades Council as well as speakers from other organisations expressing their support.

We all left the meeting up lifted by the arguments clearly made and in the knowledge that this is only the beginning of what could be a long dispute. The day was ours and the sun was still shining.

Ian Grant NUT