A set of rare badges reflecting one of the most turbulent times in trades 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 in Cross Hills, near Skipton.

Mr Emmerson, 52, of Greatwood Avenue, Skipton, 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,” he said.

“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.

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

Mr Emmerson, who now runs a stall selling slippers and shoes on Skipton market, plans to give the money to Martin House, the Wetherby hospice for children and young people.

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

To bid for the badges, call Mr Emmerson on 07986 103369.