Peaceful TUC Protests against the Cuts

A massive crowd, unseen for years, gathered in London, stretching along the embankment and through the streets. People of all ages and backgrounds marched together, united by a single message. Participants came from across the nation, including teachers, nurses, firefighters, students, and pensioners, representing various unions.

How did the participants of the march come together according to the text?

What significance does the text suggest about the diversity of the participants?