The 2013 Somerset Miners Reunion, held at the Radstock Museum, was a poignant event that paid tribute to the mining community and its history.
Wayne Thomas, secretary of the South Wales National Union of Miners, presented bouquets to the volunteers who served lunch, as well as to Rev. Sue Greatorex and Julie Dexter from the museum, in recognition of their support. The event highlighted the importance of preserving the memories and stories of Somerset’s miners for future generations.
Rev. Sue Greatorex spoke about the urgency of capturing these memories, noting that as time passes, fewer miners remain to share their experiences.
This sentiment was echoed by Nerys Watts, Head of the South West for the Heritage Lottery Fund, who praised the ‘Mining the Past’ project for involving young people in preserving Somerset’s mining heritage, ensuring that the legacy of those who worked in the coalfields will continue to be remembered for years to come.
The Mendip Times Said:
Wayne Thomas, secretary of the South Wales National Union of Miners, presented bouquets to the volunteers who served lunch. Also receiving flowers were local vicar, the Rev. Sue Greatorex and Julie Dexter, from the museum
She added: “We need to do the research now because, sadly, there are not so many of them around now. We have to capture their memories for not just this generation, but for generations to come.”
Nerys Watts, HLF’s Head of South West, said: “The history of mining on the Somerset Coalfield is thought to date back to Roman times, so it is appropriate that the ‘Mining the Past’ project should mark the anniversary of the end of this tradition in such a worthwhile way. The involvement of young people in particular will ensure that the memories and experiences of former miners will live on for generations to come and we are delighted to be able to support their work.”