The memory of 43 men and boys who died in a mining disaster in Kearsley will be remembered this month.

The Unity Brook Colliery disaster took place on March 12, 1848, when an explosion in the pit claimed 43 lives.

The disaster at Unity Brook devastated a community.

A pub was used as a makeshift chapel of rest as bodies were pulled out of the rubble.

Since 2018, Kearsley Festival Group have held an annual memorial service for those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

And this years’ service will take place on March 12 from 1pm at the Unity Brook Colliery Memorial on Manchester Road.

Barry Price from St Stephen's Church will be leading the service with a silence being held at 1.07pm, the time the disaster happened.

Pupils from Spindle Point Primary and St Stephen's CE Primary School will be in attendance and reading out the names of all the victims.

Everyone is welcome to attend the short remembrance event to stand together and remember those 43 men and boys who lost their lives.

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Stephen Tonge, one of the organisers of the service, said: "Since we constructed the memorial in 2018 we have held a short service every year.

“It not only recognises the sacrifice by the Kearsley Miners but is a source of education for our present members of the community."

Cllr Tracey Wilkinson said it is important history is passed down through generations.

She said: "Growing up in Kearsley I was unaware of the disaster which was located within walking distance of my family home.

“When I first heard about the project idea I jumped at the chance of being involved in such an important part of our Kearsley history.

“It is so important for the history of our town to be passed down from generation to generation.

“The memorial not only helps us remember the 43 who lost their lives but educates our children."

To keep updated with the memorial, visit its Facebook page at Unity Brook Colliery Disaster.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.