Last year Ed Miliband went to the Durham Miners’ Gala to march with his union paymasters. In the wake of the ongoing scandal, it is no surprise to hear that he kept his distance yesterday. Filling in the gap was new Tory campaign group Renewal. Guido understands that they survived their trip to Durham. The group have their official launch tonight, though given their aim is to win working class northern votes, finding the right venue in SW1 was tricky. The usual swanky hotels that these sort of launches use would not really cut it. Free bar at the slightly dingy Old Star seems about right. Guido will be there at around six. Flat caps optional.