a roundabout close to the city centre just before the rush hour is about to begin. Several banners are tied to the metal staithes of the walkways that traverse the motorway and simultaneously unfurled. The one opposite ours is blue and bears the legend 'exploiters of the world disunite' ours is vibrant pink and says' no to the G8, stop them taking liberties in sheffield' as soon as our banner is unfurled the most inspiring sight comes marching around the roundabout. the samba drummers of sheffield rhythms of resistance resplendant in matching pink. At the very moment they strike up a rhythm the rush hour descends down the strip of tarmac. the beat is infectious and the smiles on the faces of the drummers beautiful. it stirs the soul even at this time of morning. There are hoots of recognition but also some rude responses. Instantly a silver people carrier pulls up and three members of the fit squad pile out. they film us whilst we film them and gentlemen of the media film us all, meanwhile we carry on handing out leaflets to pedestrian's and commuters in cars. S is a joy to behold as she dances between the slow moving vehicles handing out leaflets through the windows and at one point jumping on a bus and managing to hand one to every passenger before jumping off. and all the time the drummers keep pounding out the rhythm. in my mind a much better soundtrack to the start of the morning than processed music foisted on the population by some egocentric dj in between the commercial adverts that sell you nothing but crap. By time police back up has arrived the drummers have finished their session and are winding down, all the leaflets have been given out. We leave happy, mission accomplished. A good and proper inspiring start to the next three days and beyond.
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