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Full Details

Surname
MATTHEWS
Forename
Herbert
Day
28
Month
08
Year
1912
Age
31
Occupation
Shaftsman
Mine/Quarry Name
Clandown
Mineral Worked
Coal
Owner
Clandown Colliery Co.
Location
Midsomer Norton
County
Somersetshire
Details of Event
The upcast shaft was being examined. Deceased's mate was lowered down in a sling by means of a hand-winch, while deceased and the undermanager sat at an entrance into the shaft about 50 yards from the bottom. About 20 yards below this entrance the continuity of the shaft is broken, and the two portions connected by a short heading. On reaching this point, deceased's mate found some obstruction. He partly removed this, and in consequence lost his light. After going up to where deceased was and renewing his light he again descended, but again the current was too strong and he was put in darkness. He therefore called to deceased to fetch a light, and sent up the sling. Deceased got on the, sling, but had only descended about 10 yards when a small quantity of dirt and rock fell, and a piece struck him on the head, killing him instantly. Deceased's mate had not noticed any unsafe place when he, descended the shaft to examine it.