Express & Star

Wreaths laid to honour 22 who died in Pelsall colliery disaster

Wreaths have been laid at a memorial for 22 men who died in a village's colliery disaster almost 150 years ago.

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The wreath-laying at St Michael & All Angels

On November 14, 1872, a total of 22 men and boys died when Pelsall Hall's colliery was flooded.

Wreaths were laid in memory of those who died at a monument with the names on, at St Michael & All Angels Pelsall Parish Church yesterday.

Schoolchildren were involved by laying flowers at the tribute and organiser of the event, Sim Mayou, said that he hoped it would educate the villagers about the history of the area.

Mr Mayou, president of Pelsall Civic Heritage Trust, said: "My father Bertie Mayou was a miner and knowing the situations they worked under I always feel close to miners.

"One of the tunnels was full of water and 22 men died, one as young as 13.

"I felt that we should show our appreciation and show we remember these people so I thought we should show a bit of respect for our forefathers.

"Children from local schools laid roses and carnations by the memorial, it was very very nice, the weather was good for us and the children were excellent.

"Pelsall people should know about it, it was a very important job with a lot of risk.

"When I look back I can't ever remember being educated about the monument, people seem to forget about it."

Mr Mayou, from Wolverhampton Road, Pelsall, is a former veteran having served in the Royal Navy.