THIS weekend officials gathered in Whitehaven to mark 95 years since the disaster at Haig Pit. 

On February 12, 1928, 14 miners tragically passed away in a disaster at the pit. Their bodies were never recovered.

The memorial was organised by Pit Crack West Cumbria, which is an online discussion group for ex-miners and those interested in the topic. 

Whitehaven's town crier Marc Goodwin gave a cry and other officials, including mayor Mike Starkie, were also in attendance.

Mr Starkie said: "I think the Pit Crack group who have initiated these ceremonies have done a fantastic job of raising awareness and keeping alive the history of the mines and the memory of these people who died in accidents gone by. 

"Coal mining is part of the cultural heritage of west Cumbria and in the past many families have been impacted by the accidents and as we're embarking on a new era of coal mining, it's fantastic that the former miners and Pit Crack group are among the most enthusiastic supporters of the new mine."

The town crier, Marc Goodwin, said: "It was an honour to be invited to the memorial ceremony for the 14 miners whose bodies were never recovered from Haig pit following a disaster on February 12, 1928. 

"The traditions of storytelling and passing information down through the generations by spoken word are sadly happening less, but people such as Dave Cradduck and others associated with The West Cumbria Pit Crack group are doing their best to redress this and honour our traditions and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

"Through ceremonies such as today's held at Haig Pit, ordinary lives were remembered and tales of extraordinary commitment to one's fellow miners were recounted.

"Selfless actions nearly a century ago still resonating and inspiring us in our modern lives.

"The next chapter of coal mining in our area is being written and is yet to be told, but what is certain is that families being torn apart through tragedy such as this, formed part of ordinary folks’ investment in its pursuit and help define our collective spirit.

"As we remember those 14 men whose bodies were never recovered we remember the part they have played in our story."