I HAVE a copy of the photograph in one of my late father's photo albums. It is definitely Northern United Colliery and I believe that it was taken around about the time the pit closed which was on Christmas Day 1965.

On the right of the photograph is my grandfather, Frank Preddy, who had worked at several collieries in the Forest including Speech House. Next is my Father, Jim Hale of Hale & Co, Drybrook, who had been a Bevin Boy at Northern during the Second World War.

In the middle of the group of five is Reg Davies (Reg Davies Building Contractors of Wigpool). I regret that I do not have details for the other two on the left of the photo.

My father, Jim, had arranged a visit for himself and friends while the mine was still accessible. They descended the shaft and explored some of the roadways.

– Roger Hale, by e-mail.