MPs remember Senghenydd mining disaster 100 years on

The worst mining disaster in British history happened in south Wales in 1913. A total of 439 men and boys lost their lives after an explosion in the Universal Colliery in Senghenydd.

One century later, MPs are marking the anniversary with an exhibition in parliament this week organised by local MP Wayne David.

It was officially opened last night by Labour leader Ed Miliband, who said it was a reminder of "the risks people took on behalf of their country". It was, he said "not so much a labour of love as a labour of duty" to keep their memory alive.

Mr Miliband praised efforts to develop a national mining memorial at Senghenydd. Jack Humphreys of the Aber Valley Heritage Group, who is raising funds for the memorial, was at last night's opening.

Mr David said he was delighted Mr Miliband agreed to open the exhibition.

"He represents a former mining constituency himself and knows the impact mining has had on local communities. It is commendable that the community in Senghenydd has come together and are raising funds for a national memorial.

"This memorial will be in Senghenydd, but it will be a recognition of all the miners, in all parts of the country, who lost their lives because of the coal industry. I very much hope that people will continue to donate generously to the fund".