Wednesday, 9th October. 44 members travelled by coach to the National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield, Yorkshire. After kitting out with helmet and headlamp, we descended the mine in 3 separate groups, each led by an experienced old miner armed with many an anecdote, and not a few dire warnings about safety!
The tour of the mine took us on a chronological progression of evolving mining techniques and machines, and by the end we could appreciate something of the horrendous conditions endured by young children and women working in the mines up to 1842.
Above ground, we were able to take a brief look at exhibits describing other facets of the history of mining, before watching a film about notable mining disasters, and how each one led to legislation and action to improve safety and conditions of work.
All in all a very interesting visit, and one that can be recommended if you are ever in that part of the country.