Mining descendant disappointment after tribute to miners unveiled
A memorial paying tribute to the mining industry has been unveiled in an area of Telford – however the public were unaware of it.
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The monument is opposite the Albion Inn pub in the St George’s area of the borough. Earlier this month, representatives of St Georges & Priorslee Parish Council, along with Gillian Denning of the Safer & Stronger Communities project, the Reverend Richard Walker-Hill, and Dunan Bromley, who designed the memorial, attended a ceremony to unveil it.
However, several members of the public were disappointed they were not invited and were unaware of the unveiling.
One person was Alan Gaut, whose family has a rich mining past. His father, Thomas Gaut was a minor for around 35 years and needed 127 stitches to his foot following an accident in the pits. His grandfather was also an overman at the Grange colliery, while his uncles were also miners.
“This is such a fitting tribute, not just for miners but the other industries we have round here,” said Mr Gaut.
“I think it was originally brought up in 2015 in parish meetings, but it took until this year to get it sorted.
“Councillor Handley and Councillor Overton have put their Pride Fund together to do this, but I think someone else has also put some funding in.
“We’ve asked Richard Overton, and he said to contact Stephen Handley, but Stephen doesn’t know why there wasn’t a public invite.”
A Telford & Wrekin Council spokesperson said: “We’re delighted there is so much interest in the mining memorial. The Safer & Stronger Communities team worked with residents to ensure the memorial is recognition of work through the ages and an inspiration to the generations to come.
“The initial installation was a small gathering as there is still work to complete before it’s official unveiling in the spring.
“Once the planting scheme of trees and a gilder rose, as well as grass to grow over the area, has been completed, the memorial will be shown in its best possible light. A new bench is also planned to be made as an area for reflection.
“The milder conditions will also be more suitable for guests. If you would like to attend, please email saferstronger@Telford.gov.uk and details will be sent closer to the time.”
