A DREADFUL but almost forgotten mining disaster in which four Forest of Dean colliers lost their lives, is being commemorated with a new piece of music.

Written by Chris Howley, of Lydney, the musical director of Forest of Dean Brass and Cinderford Town Band, the work will commemorate the Union pit catastrophe of 1902.

The scene was one of devastation as the mine workings near Cannop suddenly flooded, resulting in the loss of four lives, including two brothers.

The rescue efforts were watched with dismay by huge crowds of people — at one stage a gathering of 1,000 was recorded — and they were rewarded when a party of three men emerged safely on the surface. They had been incomplete darkness and standing in swirling water for five days and five nights.

The music will be played for the first time at a concert to be held at the ‘Cathedral of the Forest’ — All Saints’ Church, Newland — in May. But for members and guests of the Forest of Dean Local History Society there will be the opportunity of a sneak preview when a little of the work is played at their meeting in Bream this Saturday.