Sculpture in memory of coal miners unveiled

The sculpture depicts three miners heading to work

A memorial sculpture paying homage to coal miners who perished working at pits in Cheshire has been unveiled.

At least 42 men and boys are known to have died during the course of their work at Neston Collieries, which were based in Ness and Little Neston between 1759 and 1927.

After a campaign by residents, a new sculpture which depicts three miners heading to work has been revealed in Ness.

Neston councillor Pat Kynaston said the community had come together "to finally recognise the miners who did so much for us".

The various mining operations at the site were open between 1759 and 1855, and 1875 up until their closure in1927.

The people who died fell victim to explosions, tunnel collapses and by falling down shafts.

The mines employed thousands of people including boys as young as nine, while women did surface work.

The nearby colliery shipping quay area has since grassed over

Ms Kynaston said: "From the initial idea with a wish to produce a memorial, it has taken more or less two years.

"We're absolutely delighted with it."

The sculpture was funded by community donations, Cheshire West and Chester council and town council money.

Local historian and author Anthony Annakin-Smith said it was a "great opportunity for education about local industry".