Reopen the Hatfield colliery in Yorkshire

Former RJB Mining and UK Coal chief, Richard Budge has unveiled plans to reopen the Hatfield colliery in Yorkshire, UK by May of next year as a reflection of the revived fortunes in the UK coal industry.

Mr Budge – or King Coal as he’s dubbed due to him once buying up most of the UK coal industry – has taken advantage of continued high international coal prices and governmental concern over energy security by breathing life into the previously mothballed Yorkshire colliery.

With financial backing being filtered through his recently floated new company – Powerfuel – King Coal is planning to mine 27 Mt of coal at Hatfield between 2007 and 2023 and there are plans in the pipeline for the construction of a clean coal power station on the Hatfield site with operation projected to be by 2009.

Despite previous problems to mine at Hatfield, Mr Budge is bullish about its resurgence as an increase in the price of coal over the past three years has meant UK coal mines are more economically viable than they were during the UK Government’s last energy review in 2003.

However, despite the return to favour of coal the UK industry is still far from being a global contender as the country’s few remaining mines still face financial challenges and plans to open new mines are often thwarted by harsh planning policies.

But Mr Budge remains upbeat over the outlook of the UK commenting, “there is every prospect” of new mines opening given the improved market and speaking in the Financial Times he said: “The market has come to the project. Coal prices are 50% higher – US$60/t not US$30/t – and gas prices are 50p a therm not 20p a therm.”

Higher coal prices mean mining coal is now more lucrative and the steep rise in the price of gas signifies coal is still a relatively cheap option for power companies.

In 2001 Mr Budge bought the Hatfield colliery, but after only three short years the pit was closed due to a fall in coal prices and a delay in a governmental subsidiary scheme for the industry.

Speaking with Coal Magazine, John Delaney, corporate affairs manager at The Coal Authority expresses his delight at the reopening of Hatfield: “We are more than pleased,” he said. “We are always looking for an economically viable development and this is a tangible way forward for the industry here in the UK.”

But is it? UK Coal, the biggest coal produce in the country, has warned that the much-trumpeted renaissance of the UK coal industry could be about to come to a shuddering halt unless power companies pay more for their fuel (see Comment, p3, issue 10).

In a submission to the government’s energy review the producer is threatening to close five of its seven pits and cut 1,500 jobs unless it can force through price rises with some of its major customers like Eon, Drax and Electricité de France.

Thoresby, Welbeck and Kellingley are being touted as possible pit closures in the “near future”, in addition to Harworth and Rossington, accounting for 233 Mt of reserves.

Despite the return of coal, UK Coal has been unable to take advantage of these rises because it is locked into long-term contracts.

Talks have opened with power companies, with the outcome of which being vital to ensure the continued viability of the UK coal industry.

Worryingly on top of this, during his speech to the Confederation of British Industry on May 16, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, said: “I received the first cut of the Review. The facts are stark. By 2025, if current policy is unchanged, there will be a dramatic gap on our targets to reduce CO2 emissions; we will become heavily dependent on gas; and at the same time move from being 80/90%, self-reliant in gas to 80/90% dependent on foreign imports, mostly from the Middle East and Africa and Russia.

“These facts put the replacement of nuclear power stations, a big push on renewables and a step-change on energy efficiency, engaging both business and consumers, back on the agenda with a vengeance. If we don’t take these long-term decisions now, we will be committing a serious dereliction of our duty to the future of this country.”

Commenting on Mr Blair’s speech, Steve Kemp NUM national secretary, said: “Whilst we are waiting for the results of the Energy Review later this summer it is nevertheless extremely disappointing that the Prime Minister has once again ignored, in his speech to the CBI, the vital and essential role that British deep-mined coal can play as part of the nation’s energy requirements.

“We would urge the prime minister to carefully read our submission to the Energy Review and invest in the clean coal technologies now available and those being developed and let British deep-mined coal play a full part in sustaining our energy supply without the need to rely on imported energy sources.” (See p21 for full comment.)

It is common knowledge that Mr Blair is a supporter of nuclear power and it is his support, which could ultimately end the much-hyped rebirth of the UK coal industry. Only time will tell if this is so.

By Bree Freeman

Editor, Coal Magazine

One of the problems with a Blog

Earlier I mentioned that I was setting up a Database of Mining terms. Unfortunately I didn't include a list of coal mining terms that I have already.

If I put a list on this Blog it would go on for ever, how do I rectify this problem.

Bear with me and I hope to let you know soon.

A List of Collieries in 1980

Mine, Location, Mineral worked. men below/surface. Owner

Abbey* Neath coal D.E. Jenkins
Abernant Rhydyfro, Pontardawe, W/Glam. coal 819/188 NCB
Aberpergwm Glynneath, W/Glamorgan. coal 262/67 NCB
Abertillery New Mine Abertillery, Gwent coal 881/155 NCB
Above Park* Winoth Dale Tean Staffs. coal 07/01 Above Park Colliery Co. Ltd.
Ackton Hall Featherstone, Pontefract coal 967/322 NCB
Agecroft Agecroft Rd. Pendlebury, coal 762/188 NCB
Allerton Bywater Allerton Bywater, Castleford coal 851/317 NCB
Annesley Annesley Notts. coal 786/175 NCB
Apedale Colliery* Apedale Chesterton Staffs. coal 15/10 Great Row Colliery Co. Ltd.
Arkwright Arkwright town, Chesterfield coal 822/154 NCB
Aries Level* Coleford Glos. coal F.G.K. Hawkins and T.J. Smith
Arosfa Mine* Tredegar, Gwent coal I. Smith
Ash Grove No. 1,* Ash Grove Elland coal/fireclay 10/ W.T. Knowles and Sons
Ashington Ashington coal 704/199 NCB
Askern Main Askern, Doncaster coal 1,133/328 NCB
Auchlin Mine* Laughland Glen Rd. Ayr coal J.R. McLellan and others
Ayle East Drift* Alston coal 06/02 Ayle Colliery Co. Ltd.
Babbington Cinderhill, Nottingham coal 949/201 NCB
Baddesley Baxterley, Atherstone coal 750/246 NCB
Bagworth Bagworth coal 564/212 NCB
Bank Top* Apedale, Chesterton Staffs. coal 07/02 Great Row Colliery Co. Ltd.
Barnburqh Barnburgh, Doncaster coal 945/186 NCB
Barony Auchinlech coal 849/157 NCB
Barrow Worsborough Bridge, Barnsley coal 1,145/306 NCB
Bates Blyth coal 1,420/310 NCB
Bearpark Bearpark Co. Durham coal 463/40 NCB
Bedlay Glenboig coal 618/118 NCB
Bedwas Bedwas, Gwent coal 673/159 NCB
Bentinck Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Notts. coal 1,812/308 NCB
Bentley Bentley Doncaster coal 931/311 NCB
Bersham Rhostyllen, Wrexham coal 424/139 NCB
Betteshanger Betteshanger coal 1,062/398 NCB
Betws New Mine Ammanford, Dyfed coal NCB
Bevercotes Bothamsall, Retford, Notts. coal 1,083/238 NCB
Bickershaw Leigh, Lancashire coal 604/274 NCB
Big Arch Mine*
Bilsthorpe Bilsthorpe, Newark, Notts. coal 1,009/225 NCB
Bilston Glen Loanhead coal 2,109/249 NCB
Birch Coppice Tamworth coal 718/238 NCB
Bixlade No. 2 Mine* Warrington, Ches. coal 2/ T.S. Jones, G.T. Jones, C.J. Thomas
Blackhall Blackhall, Hartlepool coal 1,115/238 NCB
Blaenant Crynant, Neath, W/Glam. coal 539/103 NCB
Blaenavon Blaenavon, Gwent coal 355/90 NCB
Blaencuffin* Bedlinog, Mid Glam. coal S. Williams and Sons
Blaengenig No. 2* Llantrisant coal Gwndwngwyn Colliery Co. Ltd
Blaengrenig*
Blaengwrach Cwmgwrach, Neath, W/Glam coal 351/56 NCB
Blaenmerrig Merthyr coal Hopkins and Williams
Blaenpergwm* Neath, West Glam. coal
Blaenserchan Abersychan, Gwent coal 425/50 NCB
Blidworth Blidworth, Mansfield coal 868/240 NCB
Blinkbonny* Lesmahagow Lanark coal 18/06 D.Beattie
Blisthorpe
Bodyst Uchae* Ammanford coal Bodyst Uchae Colliery Co.
Bold St. Helens, Lancashire coal 1,233/264 NCB
Boldon W/Boldon Tyne and Wear coal 805/165 NCB
Bolsover Bolsover, Chesterfield coal 733/200 NCB
Brenkley Seaton Burn, Newcastle/Tyne coal 556/101 NCB
Brick Clay Quarry* Mirfield coal Thomas Garforth, Brick Quarry Mirfield
Britannia Pengam, Gwent coal 814/174 NCB
Brodsworth Woodlands, Doncaster coal 2,369/538 NCB
Brook Mine* Milkwall, Coleford, Glos. coal G.F. Short and E.H. Dowding
Brookhouse Beighton, Sheffield coal 429/176 NCB
Bryant Varteg*
Bryndulais* Neath, W/Glam. coal Penbryn Colliery Co. Ltd, Skewen
Brynglas* Pontardawe coal Brynglas Colliery Co. Ltd
Brynlliw Moriais Grovesend, nr. Swansea coal 602/111 NCB
Brynrug* Hengoed, Mid Glam. coal W.J. and A.J. Williams and Sons
Brynvarteg* Penrhos, Ystradgynlais coal R. Morgan
Bryn-y-Garn* Upper Cwmtwrch, Swansea coal W.C. Fyfield
Bullcliffe Wood Denby Dale Rd. Bretton West coal 268/41 NCB
Bush* New Tredegar, Mid Glam. coal G. Plant
Bwich* Neath coal Bwich-ton Mining Co. (Neath) Ltd.
Bwich-Ton*
Cadair Fach No. 3* Rhondda coal Cadair Fach Trading Co. Ltd
Cadeby Denaby Main, Doncaster coal 934/278 NCB
Cadley Hill Swadlincote coal 685/202 NCB
Caeglas* Treharris, Mid. Glam coal Caeglas Colliery Co. Ltd
Calverton Calverton, Nottingham coal 1,241/231 NCB
Cannop Bridge Mine* Coleford, Glos. coal H.V. William
Caphouse Overton, Wakefield coal 205/58 NCB
Cardowan Stepps, Glasgow coal 1,290/195 NCB
Castle Drift* Greenhead Carlisle coal 30/13 Blenkinsopp Collieries Ltd.
Cefn Mawr No.2* Port Talbot coal Cefn Mawr Colliery Co. Ltd
Cefn Parc, Arlais* Neath coal R.W. Jeffreys
Celynen North Newbridge, Gwent coal 688/126 NCB
Celynen South Newport coal 529/125 NCB
Chancellorsville* New Winton, Tranent coal
Clarghyll Drift* Alston, Cumbria coal 03/02 J.G.E. Williams
Clarkes Mine* Thomastown, Merthyr Tydfil coal B. Clark
Clay Pit (Albert)* Church Gresley, Burton-on-Trent coal/fireclay 05/01 Mansfield Bros.
Clipstone Clipstone, Mansfield coal 1,253/255 NCB
Coed Tallon* Coed Tallon, Mold coal/stone 02/04 Coalex Developments Ltd.
Coegnant Nantyffyllon, Maesteg coal 620/132 NCB
Comrie Saline, Dunfermline coal 948/234 NCB
Cortonwood Wombwell, Barnsley coal 603/185 NCB
Cotgrave Cotgrave, Notts. coal 1,499/265 NCB
Coventry Keresley, Coventry coal 885/269 NCB
Cresswell Cresswell, Worksop coal 865/248 NCB
Creswell
Cronton Whiston, Lancashire coal 460/122 NCB
Crugau* Neath, Glam. coal Crugau Colliery Co. Ltd
Cwm Coedely Cwm-Llantwit, Fardre coal 1,510/264 NCB
Cwmbryn* Llangennech coal Thomas, Thomas and Nichols
Cwmgwill Crosshands, Dyfed coal 363/42 NCB
Cwmllethryd No.2* Gorseinon coal J.L. Pace
Cynheidre Llaneill, Dyfed coal 1,133/251 NCB
Danygraig No. 2*
Darfield Wombwell, Barnsley coal 618/200 NCB
Darkhill Endeavour No. 2 (part)* Chepstow, Glos. coal Mapleford Collieries Ltd.
Darran Level* Neath Abbey, Neath coal Darran Colliery (Neath) Ltd.
Darrell* Lower Cwmtwrch Swansea coal B. Hopkins
Daw Mill Arley, Coventry coal 482/258 NCB
Dawdon Seaham Harbour coal 1,696/410 NCB
Dearne Valley Little Houghton, Barnsley coal 360/79 NCB
Deep Navigation Treharris, Mid Glam. coal 778/173 NCB
Denby Grange Netherton, Wakefield coal 194/43 NCB
Desford Bagworth coal 641/192 NCB
Dinnington Dinnington, Sheffield coal 649/231 NCB
Dodworth Dodworth, Barnsley coal 1,091/300 NCB
Doe Lea* Doe Lea, Chesterfield coal 26/ Doe Lea Colliery Co. Ltd.
Donisthorpe Donisthorpe coal 814/242 NCB
Dynant Fach*
Easington Easington Co. Durham coal 2,119/487 NCB
East Hetton Coxhoe, C. Durham coal 723/184 NCB
Eccles Backworth coal 392/134 NCB
Eden Leadgate coal 169/25 NCB
Ellesmore No. 2 * Tideham Chase, Glos. coal Mapleford Collieries Ltd.
Ellington Ellington, Morpeth coal 1,666/187 NCB
Ellistown Ellistown, Bagworth coal 470/97 NCB
Elsecar Elsecar Barnsley coal 729/224 NCB
Elwyn* Seven Sisters, Neath coal Tower Anthracite Co. Ltd.
Emley Moor Clayton West, Huddersfield coal 258/63
Eppleton Hetton-le-Hole Co. Durham coal 1,211/177 NCB
Evans No.4* Alltwen, Pontardawe coal D.M. Evans
Falstone Mine* Falstone, Hexham coal 04/03 W.W. and A. Swailes
Favourite Level* Ruardean, Glos. coal E.S. Morris
Ferrymoor Riddings South Kirkby, Pontefract coal 565/49 NCB
Ffynonau-Duon* Ffynonau-Duon Pentwyn coal Ffynonau-Duon Mines Ltd
Findall Level* Cinderford, Glos. coal W.H. Didcote
Florence Longton, Stoke-on-Trent coal 1,232/276 NCB
Flow Edge Drift* Alston coal 1/ F.G. Shepherd
Forest No. 3* Glynneath, West Glam coal Resolven Mining Co.
Frances Dysart Kirkcaldy coal 718/159 NCB
Frickley, South Elmsall, Pontefract coal 1,702/349 NCB
Fryston Fryston Castleford coal 673/287 NCB
Garn Tiliery* Merthyr Tidfil coal G. Howarth
Gartmorn* Forrestmill, by Alloa coal J. Dawson
Garw/Ffaldau Garw-Blaengarw, Bridgend coal NCB
Gedling Gedling, Nottingham coal 1,362/261 NCB
Gellypstyll* Pontypoll, Gwent coal T.W.A. Wilcox
Glanderi* Pontardawe coal T. McGarry
Glantref* Garnant, Carm. coal Galntref Colliery Co. Ltd
Glan-yr-Afon*
Glasshoughton Castleford coal 523/228 NCB
Gleison* Clydach, Swansea coal Slack and Craven
Glen* Pontardawe coal Glen Colliery Ltd
Glenview* Wishaw coal W.L. Moffat
Glomynydd* Tonypandy coal Harvard, Smith and Shepherd
Glyn-Cvwarch* Ammanford, Carms. coal Clyncywarch Colliery Co. Ltd
Goldborne Golborne, near Warrington coal 787/101 NCB
Goldthorpe Goldthorpe, Rotherham coal 1,223/196 NCB
Graig y Forest* Pontardawe, Swansea coal Pine Tree Coal Mining Co. Ltd
Graigwen Mine* Tredegar coal B. and W. J. Smith
Grassamainston* Clackmannan coal Hill Farm Coal Co.
Grasshill* Glenbuck Ayrshire coal 08/02 David Fisher
Greenland Drift* Quebec Co. Durham coal 15/02 Crookhall Coal Co.
Green's Trenchard* Coleford Glos coal G.F. Kear
Griffin Mine* Blackwood Gwent coal Griffin and Son
Grimebridge* Lumb in Rossendale coal 06/02 Clayton and Mitchell
Grimethorpe Grimethorpe, Barnsley coal 1,541/658 NCB
Gwynfryn No. 3*
Haggs Lane Drift* Shildon, Co. Durham coal 02/01 ERS Mining Developments Ltd.
Haig Whitehaven, Cumbria coal 771/179 NCB
Hamlins Yorkley* Wales coal Woodyatts Collieries Ltd. London
Hapton Valley Hapton Burnley, Lancashire coal 424/69 NCB
Harviestoun* Dollar, Clackmannan coal 01/01 James Drysdale and Sons
Harworth Bircotes, Doncaster coal 934/233 NCB
Hatfield Stainforth, Doncaster coal 1,464/267 NCB
Hawthorn coal NCB
Haying Wood Mine* Chesterton, Newcastle-under-Lyme coal 04/01 J.A. Knight (Coppice) Ltd.
Haywood No.3* Ruardean, Glos. coal E.S. Morris
Hedley West Riding * Stockfield, Consett coal 12/05 Hedley Coal Co.
Helig Cwmllynfell, Swansea coal Helig Colliery Co. Ltd
Hem Heath Trentham Stoke-on-Trent coal 1,404/374 NCB
Herrington Fence Houses coal 775/144 NCB
Hey Royds*
Hickleton Thurnscoe, Rotherham coal 1,003/287 NCB
High Carr No.3* Apedale Chesterton, Staffs. coal 04/02 Great Row Colliery Co. Ltd.
High Moor Hut Lane, Killamarsh, Sheffield coal 465/53 NCB
High Street Nelson, Mid. Glam coal H. Taylor
Highgate
Highhouse Auchinlech coal 254/47 NCB
Hillersland No. 2* Shortstanding, Glos. coal Hillersland Colliery Co. Ltd.
Hindsward* Cumnock, Ayrshire coal 24/06 Cain and Hamilton
Holditch Chesterton, Newcastle, Staffs. coal 530/135 NCB
Hollywood Mine* Hollywood Lane, Silverdale Staffs. coal 2/ Great Row Colliery Co. Ltd.
Hopewell Engine* Chepstow, Glos. coal Mapleford Collieries Ltd.
Hopewell in Wimberry* Coleford, Glos. coal B. Hinton and Others
Horden Horden, Peterlee Co. Durham coal 1,575/380 NCB
Houghton Houghton-le-Spring coal 175/55 NCB
Houghton Main Little Houghton, Barnsley coal 1,344/235 NCB
Hucknall Hucknall, Nottingham coal 919/237 NCB
Ireland Staveley, Chesterfield coal 615/95 NCB
Ivy Rock* Neath coal Ivy Rock Colliery Co. Ltd.
Junction* Shotts, Lanark coal 03/01 T. McDonagh
Kellingley Kellingley, Knottingley, Yorks. coal 1,286/449 NCB
Killoch Ochiltree, Ayrshire coal 1,817/332 NCB
Kilnhurst Kilnhurst, Rotherham coal 479/85 NCB
Kinneil Kinneil, Edinburgh coal NCB
Kinsley Drift Mine Kinsley, Pontefract coal 130/15 NCB
Kirkheaton Quarry* Kirkheaton, Huddersfield coal/fireclay 2/ Kirkheaton Brickworks Ltd.
Kirksmace Mine* Aberdare, Mid Glam. coal Kirkmace Ltd.
Kiveton Park Kiveton Park, Sheffield coal 593/221 NCB
Lady Victoria Newtongrange coal 713/178 NCB
Lady Windsor/Abercynon Ynysybwl, Mid Glam. coal 623/178 NCB
Lassodie* Cantsdam, Dunfermline coal 03/02 J.M. and W. Heeps
Lea Hall Armitage Rd. Rugeley coal 1,682/437 NCB
Ledston Luck Kippax, Leeds coal 285/100 NCB
Lee Mine* Merthyr Tidfil coal Penylan Small Mine Ltd
Leycett Colliery* Leycett, Newcastle-under-Lyme coal 02/01 Podmore Hall Colliery Co. Ltd
Leyland Green Drift * Leyland Green Rd. Ashton, Wigan coal 15/05 Quaker House Colliery Co. Ltd.
Linby Linby, Nottingham coal 952/217 NCB
Littleton Huntingdon, Cannock coal 1,645/366 NCB
Llechart* Neath coal Pwllywatcyn Colliery Co. Ltd
Lletherlan* Rhos, Pontardawe coal Jones and Jones
Llety Philip* Pontardawe coal Mactrimes Ltd.
Llwyngoleu* Seven Sisters, Neath coal B.J. Evans
Lofthouse Outwood, Wakefield coal 851/229 NCB
Longannet Complex Dunfermline coal NCB
Ludworth Moor* Marple Bridge, Cheshire coal 2/ A. Gee
Lydbrook Level* Lydbrook, Glos. coal Jesse Mills
Lyn* Bridgend, Glam. coal Lyn Colliery Co. Ltd
Lynemouth Lynemouth, Morpeth coal 1.370/240 NCB
Maltby Maltby, Rotherham coal 1,076/331 NCB
Manor Cross Lane, Wakefield coal 191/43 NCB
Mansfield Mansfield coal 1,226/269 NCB
Manton Manton, Worksop coal 998/281 NCB
Manvers Main Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham coal 1,162/231 NCB
Mapleford Engine No. 4* Chepstow, Glos. coal Mapleford Collieries Ltd.
March Hywel* Pontardawe, Swansea coal T.J. Slee
Mardy Mardy, Rhondda coal 852/221 NCB
Marine Cwm, Gwent coal 444/118 NCB
Markham Duckmanton, Chesterfield coal 2,000/390 NCB
Markham Markham, nr. Blackwood, Gwent coal 552/122 NCB
Markham Main Armthorpe, Doncaster coal 1,115/362 NCB
Marley Hill Marley Hill, Dunston coal 715/143 NCB
Measham Ellistown, Bagsworth coal 464/106 NCB
Merrill's Head No. 1 & 5* Cliviger, Burnley coal 03/01 J. Simpson Little
Merthyr Merthyr Vale, Mid Glam. coal 495/183 NCB
Merthyr Vale
Meudwy* Swansea coal Blaentawe Mining Co.
Micklam No. 5* Lowca, Whitehaven fireclay 18/04 Workington Iron and Steel Co.
Monktonhall Millerhill, Midlothian coal 1,506/260 NCB
Moor Side* Mosborough, Sheffield coal 20/ Moorside Mining Co. Ltd.
Moorgreen Newthorpe, Notts. coal 871/219 NCB
Mossbrook* Eckington, Sheffield coal 13/ Mossbrook Colliery Ltd.
Murton Murton Co. Durham coal 1,306/263 NCB
Nantgarw/Windsor Windsor, Taffs Wells, S/Glam. coal 290/64 NCB
Nanthir* Crynant, Neath coal A. Thomas
Nantyffin No. 2 Mine* Merthyr Tidfil coal Nantyffin Small Mines Ltd.
New Duke* Ammanford coal C. Lloyd
New Found Out No.2* Coleford, Glos. coal Larchstone Ltd.
New High Carr No. 4* Great Row Staffs. coal 07/01 Great Row Colliery Co. Ltd.
New Hucknall Huthwaite, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. coal 514/134 NCB
New Road Level* Coleford Glos coal B. Hinton and Others
New Shildon* Shildon, Co. Durham coal 09/04 Storey Lodge Colliery Co. Ltd.
New Whitecroft* Bream, Glos. coal G.E. and N.R. Ennis and D.W. Davis
Newdigate Bedworth, Nuneaton coal 519/199 NCB
Newmarket Silkstone Stabley, Wakefield coal 431/195 NCB
Newmillerdam Hall Green, Wakefield coal 185/40 NCB
Newstead Newtsead, Notts. coal 1,246/176 NCB
North Gawber Mapplewell, Barnsley coal 657/200 NCB
Nostell Nostell, Wakefield coal 386/164 NCB
Oakdale Oakdale, Gwent coal 1,006/185 NCB
Old Morgan Foly No. 2* Lydney, Gwent coal J.G. Gear
Old Park Colliery* Lydney, Gwent coal D.E. Johns
Old Unemployed Level* Tredegar, Gwent coal I. Smith (Tredegar) Ltd.
Ollerton Ollerton, Newark coal 810/252 NCB
Orgreave Handworth, Sheffield coal 596/192 NCB
Pantygaseg* Pontypool, Gwent coal J. Desmond
Parc Level* Rhiwfawr, Swansea coal Wilkins and Llewellyn
Park Hill Park Hill, Wakefield coal 373/120 NCB
Park Mill Clayton West, Huddersfield coal 288/78 NCB
Park Nook* Elland, Yorks. clay 19/03 S. Wilkinson and Sons Ltd.
Parkland No. 3 Mine* Apedale, Chesterton coal 05/02 Apedale Hall Colliery Co. Ltd.
Parklands Banbury No. 5* Chesterton Staffs. coal 10/06 Parklands Colliery Co. Ltd
Parkside Newton-le-Willows coal 1,413/316 NCB
Parsonage Leigh coal 619/94 NCB
Peckfield Micklefield, Leeds coal 353/179 NCB
Penallta Hengoed, Mid Glam. coal 658/172 NCB
Pencraig* Amman Valley coal D. Bell
Pencwm No. 2* Upper Tumble, Llanelli coal Wyndham Williams
Penrikyber Penrhiwceiber, Mid. Glam. coal 690/165 NCB
Pentwyn No. 3* Goodegraig, Swansea coal Pentwyn Colliery Co. (No.3)
Pentwyn* Newport Gwent coal Harthy Bros.
Penygrug* Swansea coal Penygrug Colliery Co. Ltd.
Penyrheol* Newport Gwent coal Penyrheol Colliery Co. Ltd.
Pleasley Pleasley, Mansfield Notts. coal 544/168 NCB
Point of Ayr Ffynnongroew, Flintshire coal 531/145 NCB
Polkemmet Whitburn W/Lothian coal 1,280/215 NCB
Polmaise Fallin, Stirling coal 503/113 NCB
Prince of Wales Pontefract coal 777/332 NCB
Pye Hill Jacksdale, Notts. coal 892/197 NCB
Quaker House* Ashton-in-Makerfield coal 30/15 Quaker House Colliery Co. Ltd
Quidchurch* Cinderford, Glos. coal S.E. Warren
Ramshawfield Drift* Bardon Mill, Hexham coal 14/02 Henshaw Coal Co. Ltd.
Rawdon Moira coal 920/269 NCB
Reddings Level No. 2* Raurdean, Glos. coal E.S. Morris
Renishaw Park Staveley, Chesterfield coal 438/104 NCB
Rhaeadr* Betws, Ammanford coal Rhaeadr Colliery Co. Ltd.
Rheola Resolven, Glam. coal Rheola Colliery Co. Ltd
Robin Rock Drift* Ventors Hall, Haltwistle coal 3/ F. Dodd, Bardon Mill Hexham
Roger Kirkconnel coal 115/6 NCB
Rose in Hand Mine* Cinderford, Glos. coal S.E. Warren
Rossington Rossington, Doncaster coal 1,366/300 NCB
Rothwell Rothwell, Leeds coal 536/134 NCB
Royston Drift Royston, Barnsley coal 412/86 NCB
Rufford Mansfield coal 1,126/267 NCB
Sacriston Sacriston Co. Durham coal 264/41 NCB
Santon Dragonby* Scunthorpe, Lincs ironstone British Steel Corporation
Sarn Helen* Resolven, Glam. coal Dulais Coal Co.
Savile Methley, Leeds coal 363/135 NCB
Scranton* Llantrisant coal Maindy Colliery Ltd.
Seafield Kirkcaldy coal 2,077/279 NCB
Seaham Seaham Co. Durham coal 369/124 NCB
Selby (planned project)
Shafden Park Mine* Hepscott, Morpeth coal 10/11 J.C. Haynes (Northern) Ltd.
Sharlston New Sharlston, Wakefield coal 985/239 NCB
Sherwood Mansfield, Notts. coal 782/218 NCB
Shilbottle Alnwick coal 484/64 NCB
Shirebrook Shirebrook, Mansfield coal 1,495/290 NCB
Shireoak Shireoaks, Worksop coal 455/156 NCB
Silverdale Silverdale, Newcastle. Staffs. coal 653/167 NCB
Silverhill Teversal, Sutton-in-Ashfield Notts. coal 884/224 NCB
Silverwood Thrybergh, Rotherham coal 1,210/232 NCB
Six Bells Six Bells, Gwent coal 682/162 NCB
Smithston* Patna, Ayrshire coal 07/01 T. Love
Smithy Dene Drift* Edmondsley, Sacriston coal 08/02 Smithy Dene Quarry Co. Ltd.
Snibston Coalville coal 528/223 NCB
Snowdown Snowdown, Eythorne coal 672/214 NCB
Soffrydd* Aberbeeg, Gwent coal D.V. Warren
Sorn Mauchline, Ayrshire coal 246/18 NCB
South Hetton South Hetton Co. Durham coal 248/100 NCB
South Kirkby South Kirkby, Pontefract coal 1,390/319 NCB
South Leicester Ellistown coal 418/80 NCB
Springfield* Shibden, Halifax coal/fireclay 7/ C. and S. Parkinson (Bradford) Ltd
St. John's Maesteg, Mid. Glam. coal 660/151 NCB
St. Vincent* Chepstow, Glos. coal Mapleford Collieries Ltd.
Steetley Steetley, Worksop coal 382/117 NCB
Storrs Bridge* Loxley, Sheffield fireclay/potclay 40/1 Thomas Marshall and Co. Loxley Ltd.
Storrs* Loxley Sheffield fireclay 13/03 T. Wragg and Sons (Sheffield) Ltd
Strathfield* Stretton, Derbyshire coal 13/ H. and C. Hartshorne
Sutton Stanton Hill, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. coal 612/165 NCB
Sutton Manor St. Helens coal 663/189 NCB
Taff Merthyr Trelewis, Treharris, Mid. Glam. coal 523/158 NCB
Tal-Level-Lo* Rhymney, Mid Glam. coal S.F. Williams
Tanygarn* Glanamman, Carm. coal Tanygarn Colliery Ltd.
Temple* Temple Midlothian coal 22/08 McNeill and Knox
Teversal Teversal, Sutton-in-Ashfield coal 397/121 NCB
Thoresby Edwinstowe, Mansfield coal 1,141/232 NCB
Thurcroft Thurcroft, Rotherham coal 539/213 NCB
Tilmanstone Eythorne, near Dover coal 613/215 NCB
Tirbach Mine* Trelewis, Glam. coal R.D. Edmunds
Ton-Tyr-Bel* Crumlin, Gwent coal H.L. Robinson
Tower/Fernhill Tower, Tirwau, Mid. Glam. coal 927/207 NCB
Treeton Treeton, Rotherham coal 631/190 NCB
Treforgan (drift) Treforgan, Neath coal 420/50 NCB
Trelewis (dirft) Trelewis, Mid. Glam. coal 265/22 NCB
Twllycan* Gorseinon, Glam coal S. Jones, and E. Jones
Tymawr/Lewis Merthyr Tymawr, Mid Glam. coal 662/176 NCB
Ughill* Loxley, Sheffield fireclay/potclay 11/02 T. Wragg and Sons (Sheffield) Ltd.
Union Colliery* Coleford, Glos. coal W.J. Jenkins
Upper Ras-Bryn-Oer* Rhymney, Mid. Glam coal Davies Bros.
Vane Tempest Seaham Co. Durham coal 846/217 NCB
Venalt* Neath coal Venalt Colliery Co. Ltd
Viaduct* Glenbuck, Ayrshire coal 22/08 R. Anderson
Victoria Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent coal 467/141 NCB
Wallsend* Bream, Glos. coal D.E. Johns
Walterclough* Southowram coal/fireclay 16/29 Brookes Ltd. Lightcliffe, Halifax
Walton Crofton, Wakefield coal 631/205 NCB
Warsop Shirebrook, Mansfield coal 1,155/230 NCB
Wath Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham coal 693/113 NCB
Waunhir No. 2* Brynamman, Dyfed coal J. Lewis
Wearmouth Sunderland coal 2,107/323 NCB
Wedgewood Mine* Talke, Stoke-on-Trent coal 29/08 Wedgewood Colliery Ltd
Welbeck Meadow Vale, Welbeck, Mansfield coal 1,073/267 NCB
Werrington* Talke, Stoke-on-Trent coal 2/ Werrington Colliery Ltd
West Cannock Brindley Heath, Hednesford coal 648/162 NCB
Westoe South Shields coal 2,146/363 NCB
Westthorpe Killamarsh, Sheffield coal 578/118 NCB
Wheatshire* Ughill Bradfield, Sheffield fireclay/clay 24/05 J. and J. Dyson Ltd.
Wheldale Castleford coal 501/189 NCB
Whittle Newton-on-the-Moor, Felton coal 427/85 NCB
Whitwell Whitwell, Worksop, Notts. coal 685/175 NCB
Whitwick Coalville coal 629/96 NCB
Windy Arbour* Winstanley, Wigan coal 05/03 Windy Arbour Colliery, Winstanley
Wolstanton Wolstanton, Newcastle-u-Lyme coal 1,025/307 NCB
Woodgreen No. 2* Parkway Ave. Sheffield coal Woodgreen Highdelf Ltd
Woodhorn Woodhorn, Ashington coal 451/92 NCB
Woodside Drift* Consett, Co. Durham coal 12/03 Crookhall Coal Co. Consett
Woolley Darton, Barnsley coal 1,514/428 NCB
Wrytree* Greenhead Carlisle coal 30/13 Blenkinsopp Collieries Ltd.
Wyndham/Western Wyndham, Ogmore Vale, Glam. coal 960/226 NCB
Yorkshire Main Edlington, Doncaster coal 1,431/400 NCB
Ystrad* Ammanford coal Thomas and Ownes

PITS MARKED THUS* were private mines.

List of Collieries in 1993

from 'Guide to the Coalfields'

Gives name of mine, location, manager, undermanager, number of men underground, number of men on surface and seams worked.

Pits marked thus (L) were private mines, licensed by the Coal Authority.

Abbey (L) Neath, West Glam. A. Aston Pentre Rider
Alltwen Hill (L) Swansea
Amber Valley (L) Alfreton, Derby E. Hartshorne Blackshale
Annesley/Bentnick Annesley, Notts E. Blackwell J.H. Van Ham 675 205 Blackshale
Apedale (L) Chesterton, Staffs. C.W. Kirkham Channel, Bassey etc.
Asfordby Asfordby, Notts G.C. Harris P. Marriot 374 93 developing mine
Ayle Drift (L) J. Shepherd Little Limestone
Backshot (L) Forth, Lanarkshire Wilontown Main
Bank Top (L) Leycett, Staffs. W. Lewis Rowhurst
Barhaugh Drift (L) F. Shepherd Little Limestone
Bentley Bentley, Doncaster G.J. Wilson P. Dawson 554 135 Parkgate/Swallow Wood
Betws Ammanford, Dyfed C.L. Jones M. Cook 100 13 Red Vein
Bevercotes Retford, Notts D.R. Bell J.R. Nichol 629 159 Hard/Top Hard/Low Waterloo
Bilsthorpe Bilsthorpe, Notts A. Alisop S.G. Pollard 757 170 Parkgate/Low Main
Blackbarn (L) Cefn y Crib, Gwent M.R. Jones
Blaengrenig No.2 (L) Ammanford, Dyfed C. Windos Red Vein
Blaenpergwm (L) Port Talbot, West Glam. E. Williams
Blagill (L) J. Watson Little Limestone
Bolsover Bolsover, Chesterfield P.J. Mullery P. Chambers 477 110 Blackshale
Brawds Level (L) Maesteg, Mid Glam D.I. Evans
Brynglas (L) Ammanford, Dyfed J. Morgan
Bryn-Y-Garn (L) Rhondda, W.C. Fyfield
Bwlch Varteg (L) Rhos, West Glam
Caeglas (L) Treeharris, Mid Glam
Calverton Calverton, Notts R.J. Hallam D.J. Messom 590 199 Low Bright/Brinsley/High Hazel
Cannop Drift (L) Cannop, Coleford
Cannop Engine (L) Coleford
Carn Cornel No.2 (L) Neath, West Glam.
Castle Drift (L) B. Craig Little Limestone
Cefn Mawr No.2 (L) Neath, West Glam
Clarghill (L) J.G.E. Williams Little Limestone
Clipstone Clipstone, Mansfield D.M. Betts P.A. Townsend 794 161 Yard/Deep Soft
Coed Talon (L) C. Burgess
Cotgrave Cotgrave, Notts S. Wright R.J. Nevin 496 117 Blackshale
Craig Merthyr (L) Swansea?
Craigman (L) New Cummock, Ayr J. O'Hara
Craig-y-Llyn (L) Rhondda
Crugau (L) Neath, W. Glam
Cwmglo (L) Pontypool, Gwent Yard/Seven Feet
Cwm-Yr-Onen (L) Neath, W. Glam.
DanyGraig No.2 (L) near Swansea
Darrell NO.2 (L) Rhondda
Daw Mill Arley, Coventry A. Galloway R.J. Flint 1359 124 Thick
Dinas Rock (L) Port Talbot
Doe Lea (L) Doe Lea, Chesterfield J. Mitchell Top Hard
Dynant Fach No.2 (L) Dyfed
Easington Easington, Co. Durham S.J. Reece K.G. Smith 1595 303 Main Yard/Low Main
Ellington Combine Ellington, Morpeth E.W. Kearney A. Baggerley 1799 164 Main Yard/Brass Thrill
Elwyn Pinetrees (L) Port Tolbot
Evans No. 4 (L) Swansea
Evans No.4 (L) Swansea
Evawill (L) Dyfed
Farmwood (L) Coleford
FForch-Y-Garran (L) West Glam
Ffynonau-Duon 1 and 2 (L) Mid Glam
Ffynonau-Duon 3 (L) Mid Glam
Ffynonau-Duon 4 (L) Mid Glam
Forest No.3 (L) Neath W. Glam.
Frances Dysart, Scotland W. Kerr A. Simpson
Frickley South Elmsall, Pontefract K.I. Whiteman S. Atkin Cudworth/Newhill/Haighmoor
Gasciogne Wood South Milford, Leeds H.D. Hoy F. Wallbank 196 80
Glanderi (L) West Glam.
Glan-Yr-Afon (L) ?
Gleison (L) Cardiff
Glen (L) Swansea
Glenview Carluke, Lanarkshire
Glomynydd (L) Rhondda
Goldthorpe Goldthorpe, Rotherham A. Hendy C.J. Prescott Shafton
Green Clough Merrils Head Farm, Cliviger A. Little
Greenland Drift (L) Quebec, Co. Durham D. Carlisle Busty Top/Busty
Grime Bridge (L) Dean Rossendale W. Clayton
Grimethorpe Grimethorpe, Barnsley D.L. Brook D. Lowery Parkgate/Fenton/Newhill
Gwynfryn No.2 (L) Cardiff
Harworth Bircotes, Doncaster R.W. Robson J.M. Brown 988 193 Deep Soft/Swallow Wood
Hatfield/Thorne Stainforth, Doncaster J. Ainley M.J. Seal 848 151 High Hazel
Hay Royds (L) Clayton West, Huddersfield A. Bilston
Haying Wood (L) Leycett, Staffs. F. Green
Hayners Bailey (L) Lydney Glos.
Heol Hen (L) Neath
High Street (L) Treharris
Hirfynidd (L) Neath
Hirfynydd (L) Neath
Hopewell-in-Wimberry (L) Coalway, Coleford
Houghton Main Little Houghton, Barnsley J. Blundell D.P. Round 1141 157 Silkstone/Fenton
Hulme (L) Hulme, Stoke M. Longton
Ivy Rock (L) N.W. Glam
Johnson (L) Blackwood Gwent
Kellingley Kellingley, Yorks N.R. Kemp T. Brooks 929 158 Beeston/Silkstone
Kielder Forest Mine (L) Wombwell, Barnsley developing
Kiveton Kiveton Park, Sheffield E. Hardy N. Betts 456 109 Clowne/High Hazel
Lassodie (L) Kelty, Fife Seven Foot
Leycett (Podmoor Hall) (L) Leycett, Newcastle W. Lewis Great Coal/Cannel Row
Little Sherriff (L) Silverdale Notts T. Warnes Winghay
Littleton Huntingdon, Cannock R.P.H. Dean S.H. Parker 960 91 Park Benches/Eight Feet
Llechart No.2 (L) Neath
Llety Philip (L) Cardiff
Lodge Drift (L) Pentre Broughton, Wrexham N. Williams
Longannet Complex Clackmannan, Scotland W.R. Dow
Lonnen Drift (L) Spennymoor, Co. Durham M. McQuire Bottom Hutton
Mainband (St. Bees) (L) Whitehaven, Cumbria N.G. Edmunds
Maltby Maltby, Rotherham M.J. High J. Kellaway 483 180 Swallow Wood
Manton Manton, Worksop K.W, Jessup T. McKechnie 668 153 Parkgate
March Hywel (L) W. Glam
Markham Duckmanton, Chesterfield C.G. Ponder P.E. Ward 1231 196 Thin/Thick Blackshale
Markham Main Armthorpe, Doncaster A. Davies W.P. Cooke 801 131 Barnsley
Middridge Drift (L) Shilton, Co. Durham A. Hewick Sutton
Monkton Hall Dalkeith, Scotland W. Kerr A. Simpson
Moorside (L) Mosborough, Sheffield D. Amatt Parkgate
Nant Fach (L) Swansea
Nant Gwrhyd (L) Swansea
Nant Merddog (L) Gwent
Nantglas Newydd (L) Neath
Nanthir (L) Neath
Nantmelyn (L) Mid Glam.
Nant-Y-Cafn (L) Swansea
Nant-Y-Glo (L) West Glam.
Nant-Y-Mynydd (L) West Glam.
New Penrhiw (L) Swansea
New Road Level (L) Coalway, Coleford
North Selby Escrick, Yorkshire A. Williams P. Winks 366 76 Barnsley
Old Park (L) Bream, Lydney, Glos.
Ollerton Ollerton, Newark M.D. Orchiston S. Morris 830 177 Parkgate
Osmondcroft Drift (L) Winston, Co. Durham Yordale
Pantygasseg (L) Pontypool, Gwent
Parc Level (L) Amannford
Park Drift (L) Willington Crook, Durham M. Burrows
Parklands (L) Apedale, Chesterton A. Cartwright Bullhurst
Parkside Newton-le-Willows M.W. Ramsay G.G. Mottram 770 76 Trencherbone
Penhydd Newydd (L) West Glam.
Pentreclwydau (L) Port Talbot
Pentwyn No.3 (L) Amannford
Penygrug (L) West Glam.
Penywaum No.2 (L) Amannford
Point of Ayr Holywell, Clwyd P.G. Redford K. Whitehead 492 59 Yard/Stone/Hard Five Quarters
Ponty (L) West Glam.
Prince of Wales Pontefract, Yorks W.R. Davies G. Maynes 546 73 Stanley Main/Warren House
Quaker House (L) Ashton in Makerfield C. Booth King
Rashiehill (L) Forth, Lanarkshire V. Wilson Wilsontown Main
Redding Level (L) Ruardean, Glos.
Rhaeadr (L) Swansea
Rheola (L) Neath
Riccall Riccall, Selby, Yorks J.S. Sumnall I.J. Lloyd 545 90 Barnsley
Rithan (L) Pontypool
Rossington Rossington, Doncaster G. Mountain S.W. Jackson 781 166 Barnsley/Dunsil
Rufford Mansfield D.J. Moult D. Meikie 620 163 Yard/Blackshale
Scranton (L) Port Talbot
Shadfen Park Drift (L) Morpeth, Northumberland A. Newey Harvey
Sharlston Sharlston, Wakefield P.A. Adams M. Cartwright 590 109 Warren House/Stanley Main
Shirebrook Shirebrook, Mansfield C.J.E. Smith P.C. Stokes 1004 162 Deep Hard/Piper/Blackshale
Silverdale Silverdale Staffordshire K. Leech M. Arthur 661 96 Great Row/Winghay
Silverhill Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts I. Clayton R.A.P. Britton 661 152 Yard/Piper
Silverwood Thybergh, Rotherham T. Lawson A. Barnes 902 148 Swallow Wood/Haigh Moor
Stillingfleet Stillingfleet, Yorks P. Lewis M. Weston 534 84 Barnsley
Taff Merthyr Treharris, Mid Glam. M.K. Lewis P.D. Morgan 383 65 Seven Feet
Tai-Level-Lo (L) Mid Glam.
Thoresby Mansfield, Notts K.G. Fidler D.L. Wheatly 994 194 Parkgate
Tower Hirwaun, Mid Glam D.J. Fox D.B Lewis 413 77 Seven Feet/Five Feet
Tows Bank Drift (L) Coanwood, Haltwhistle
Trentham Trentham, Stoke J.R. Sorbie D. Durber 1594 167 Hams/Yard etc
Tstrad (L) Amannford
Twillycarn (L) Dyfed
Tyn Wern (L) West Glam.
Tyn-Graig (L) West Glam.
Upper Ras Brynoer (L) Gwent
Vane Tempest/Seaham Seaham, Co. Durham T. Gray P. Robson 910 196 High Main
Venallt (L) Swansea
Viaduct (L) Muirkirk, Ayrshire J. Bacharac
Waunhir No.2 (L) Amannford
Wearmouth Sunderland W. Fairbairn K.R.T. Benson 1779 299 Yard/Maudlin/Low Main
Welbeck Welbeck, Mansfield S.J. Parkin N. Harrison 848 195 Top Hard/Deep Soft
Werntarw No.2 (L) Mid Glam.
Westhoe South Shields T.P. Watson R. Watson 1529 269 Main/Maudlin/Brass Thrill
Whitemoor Selby, Yorks P.L. Gwilliam J. Alstead 252 54 Barnsley
Whittle (L) Hampeth, Fenton, Northumberland
Winstone (L) Gwent
Wistow Wistow, Selby, Yorks G.E. Wilby R. Draper 627 82 Barnsley
Woodside (L) Consett, Durham A. Newey
Woody Close (L) Consett, Durham
Wrytree (L) Greenhead, Carlisle Little Limestone

Yorkshire Colliery Closures

In 1984, Yorkshire had 56 collieries in total. Out of these, 17 were in the Wakefield district, 11 in the Barnsley district, 10 in the Rotherham district, 9 in the Doncaster district, 5 in the Selby district, 2 in the Kirklees district and 2 in the Leeds district. There are now only three collieries left in Yorkshire: Kellingley, Maltby and Rossington. There is a possibility of Hatfield colliery reopening.

The largest mine in Yorkshire was Brodsworth and the smallest was Kinsley.

List of collieries and date of closure

Acton Hall 1985
Allerton Bywater 1994
Askern 1991
Barnburgh 1989
Barnsley Main 1991 [had originally closed in 1968, but reopened to transfer workforce from defunct "Barrow" pit in 1985]
Bentley 1993
Brodsworth 1990
Brookhouse 1985
Bullcliffe Wood 1985 merged with Denby Grange
Cadeby & Denaby 1986
Caphouse 1985 merged with Denby Grange
Cortonwood 1985
Darfield 1989 merged with Houghton
Dearne Valley 1991
Denby Grange 1991
Dinnington 1991
Dodworth 1987. Between 1985-7, only Redbrook shaft operating and known as "Redbrook Colliery".
Emley Moor 1985
Ferrymoor 1985 merged with South Kirkby
Frickley/South Elmsall 1993
Fryston 1985
Gascoigne Wood* 2004
Glasshoughton 1986
Goldthorpe 1994
Grimethorpe 1992
Hatfield 2004
Hickleton 1986 merged with Goldthorpe
High Moor drift mine opened briefly 1987-9
Houghton 1992
Kellingley still open
Kilnhurst 1989
Kinsley 1986
Kiveton Park 1994
Ledston Luck 1986
Maltby still open
Manvers 1988
Markham 1992
North Gawber 1985 merged with Woolley
North Selby* 1999
Nostell 1987
Park Mill 1989
Prince of Wales 2002
Ricall* 2004
Rossington still open
Royston 1989
Savile [at Normanton] 1985. Often confused with the "Savile & Shawcross Colliery", which closed in 1968.
Sharlston 1993
Silverwood 1995
South Kirkby 1988
Stillingfleet* 2004
Thurcroft 1991
Treeton 1990
Wath 1986 merged with Manvers
Wheldale 1987
Wistow* 2004
Woolley 1987
Yorkshire Main 1985

* denotes Selby complex

Mining Database

One of the tasks that I have been doing lately is putting together a Coal Mining database, I wish to extend this further.

I also wish to set up a database of mining terms to cover the metalliferous mining industry.

If any reader of this Blog wishes to let me have details of mining terminology, please leave a comment on this article.

Links

National Coal Mining Museum

Digging up the past - a large number of links here

Initial Blog

Hello everyone.

This is a new Blog about British Mining.

I was employed in the British coal mining industry from 1975 to 1988. After redundancy, I have also had a successful career in IT management and at present I am pursuing another direction of employment.

I aim to bring together in this Blog all different aspects of mining in the UK, past, present and future.

Some of the articles and listings may include items that have previously been published, where known I will attribute the original author. Sorry if I miss anyone, but get in touch to rectify the ommission.