The Somerset District Miners Welfare Trust

Somerset coal was worked from the Roman period through to the closure of the last working pit in 1973. For much of that time the people involved in extracting the “black gold” worked in difficult and dangerous conditions, and there was little interest shown in their health and welfare.

It was not until the 19th century that legislation began to regulate the industry and interest in the social welfare of miners development. By the 1870s, the miners themselves had banded together to form their union, affiliated to the Miners Federation of Great Britain.

As mining reached its zenith on the eve of the Great War, miners contributions resulted in the building of numerous resources to benefit the men who worked the coal. Across the coalfield, Miners Welfare Institutes were built, sports facilities developed and activities funded.

Every week, Bryn Hawkins had insightful conversations with retired miners, as well as individuals connected to the Somerset coal industry and those whose lives were shaped by it. These shows were generously supported by the Somerset Miners Welfare Trust, which continues to honour the legacy of the region’s mining history.

In this particular programme, you’ll have the chance to hear from several members of the Somerset Miners Welfare Trust. They share personal stories about their time working in the mines, offering a unique perspective on the challenges, camaraderie, and the sense of community that defined life in the coal industry. Their recollections paint a vivid picture of what it was like to be part of Somerset’s rich mining heritage.