On 11th September 1878 a fire-damp explosion rumbled through the Abercarn Colliery in Monmouthshire. 260 colliers were killed but despite the fires still burning and the likeleyhood of a further explosion, some rescuers made a determined effort to save the lives of those still alive. They refused to leave the pit until they were convinced that no others remained alive. The rescuers included William Simons, Thomas Herbert, Miles Moseley, Charles Preen, William Walters, Lewis Harris and Charles Morgan all of whom spent the whole afternoon underground taking part in the rescue work and all of whom received Gallantry Awards for their efforts.
From 'Heroic Endeavour' by D.V. Henderson, GM.
© Copyright 1999-2006Philip Clifford