Saying goodbye to a true legend of the Welsh coal mining community. Ivor England, a respected figure and former miner, passed away at 90. Born into a family of miners in Ferndale, Ivor started working young, eventually joining Rhondda’s Maerdy Colliery, dedicating 29 years of his life there.
Ivor wasn’t just another miner; he was passionate about preserving the rich history of the Welsh coal industry. He tirelessly shared his experiences, from gruelling early mornings to the haunting dangers underground. His stories of strict regimes, daring escapes, and the life risks at the colliery have left a lasting imprint in the hearts of many.
Once a talented trombonist, Ivor had dreams of joining the Lewis Merthyr Colliery’s renowned brass band. He remembered everything from marching to work by 7 am sharp, the hazards of falling asleep from sheer exhaustion, to narrowly escaping dismissal after a midday nap underground.
Being a miner in those days meant being close-knit, whether it was working alongside legends like AJ Cook or sharing fond memories of Cowbridge, the colossal white horse that pulled drams underground.
Ivor stood as a pillar in his community, serving as the secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers Lodge during those tough times like the miners’ strike. The challenges of collapsing timber supports and dealing with underground critters were just part of the job for Ivor and his peers.
His stories also pay tribute to those who lost their lives, like the tragic explosion in 1955 that claimed eight lives. Ivor’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy and dedication to the mining heritage continue to inspire and remind us of the resilience of the Welsh coal mining community.
Rest in peace, Ivor England. Your tales and commitment will forever echo through the valleys. Funeral details to be announced by J Pidgeon & Son Ltd.