I HAVE done many years of research into mining accidents and fatalities in the Forest of Dean coal and iron ore fields. I have therefore come across many unique expressions and words that apply locally in our mines.

The word "whelve" has always been a stumbling block as I cannot find out what it means exactly.

All I know that it applies to roof falls as the following is a good example of its usage: "He died after being crushed by the fall of a whelve from the roof of a stall..."

I would be extremely grateful if someone who knows the answer, could ring me on 01594 824343 and take your mind off the election for a while.

Dave Tuffley, Cinderford.