Community gather at the 45th anniversary of Golborne mining disaster

On March 18, 1979, one of the UK's last major mining accidents took place at Golborne colliery after a build-up of methane exploded and sent a fireball searing through the mine tunnels.

Ten men were killed in the tragedy, with apprentice electrician Brian Rawsthorne the only man to survive.

To commemorate the disaster and remember those who died, a remembrance event is organised by the Golborne ex-miners group every year.

With a larger event organised every five years, ex-miners and their families joined politicians and residents to mark the 45th anniversary of the tragedy on Sunday, March 17.

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Golborne Brass Band marched the crowds to St Thomas' Church (Image: Golborne Brass Band)
With the event attracting a "great turnout", attendees marched with Golborne Brass Band from the Queen Anne pub on Bridge Street to St Thomas' Church, while stopping to pay respects at the miner's memorial on High Street.

A touching church service then honoured those lost in the tragedy, with a candle lit to commemorate the lives of the ten men as their names were read out.

To ensure the event ran safely and smoothly, the ex-miners group worked with Wigan Council and local councillors who said that there was a "lovely atmosphere" on Sunday.

Cllr Susan Gambles with chair of the Golborne ex-miners Eric Foster (Image: Cllr Susan Gambles)
Gena Merrett, councillor for Golborne and Lowton West, said: "There was a lovely atmosphere at the event and it was great to see so many people coming out to show their support.

"It's great that we continue to commemorate this disaster not only for the miners who lost their lives, but for their families too.

"As the vicar mentioned in the service, it's so important that we continue to remember this tragedy and those who lost their lives as there was a price to pay for our reliance on coal."

Representatives from St Helens also attended the event (Image: Cllr David Baines)
In addition to local Golborne councillors, other politicians came out to pay their respects at the event including Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, former Leigh MP Jo Platt, leader of Wigan Council David Molyneux, and Mayor of Wigan borough Kevin Anderson.

With the disaster also affecting people in neighbouring towns, St Helens North MP Conor McGinn, leader of St Helens Council David Baines, the Mayor of St Helens Lynn Clarke and further St Helens councillors were also in attendance.

Leader of St Helens Council David Baines added: "There was a fantastic turn out for the event in Golborne marking 45 years since the pit disaster.

"I was proud to attend alongside Labour colleagues and friends from St Helens, Newton-le-Willows, Haydock and beyond including Mayor of St Helens Borough Councillor Lynn Clarke and Conor McGinn MP

"Thank you to all the organisers, and to all those who attended to pay respects."