Much has been written about coal mining, it's effect on the health and welfare of individual miners and their families and, in recent years, the story of conflict with subsequent governments. What is less well documented is the history of the Mines Rescue Teams involved in many of the tragic disasters which were, sadly, all too common. In these few pages I hope to begin to rectify this omission. I am also compiling a book which will go into greater detail but, in the meantime I would use this medium to impart a taste of what is to come and invite you to contribute, criticise (constructively) or even correct me where you feel errors have been stated.