Explore Wrexham’s mining heritage at free Bersham Colliery event

There’s a chance to explore one of Wrexham’s most historical sites this weekend with Bersham Colliery opening its gates for its final open day of the year.

The site will be open to the public on Sunday 24th September between 10am and 4pm. It is free to attend and park.

Over the summer open days are held by volunteers from North Wales Miners Association Trust on the last Sunday of the month, with this weekend’s the last to take place this year.

The last colliery in the Denbighshire coalfield, Bersham Colliery stopped production in 1986 and ended Wrexham’s long association with coal. The last tub of coal was wound to the surface on December 18th of that year.

Over the last two years the Grade 2 listed engine house has undergone extensive external renovation work, which is still ongoing.

On Sunday visitors will have the chance to explore Wrexham’s mining heritage and view films, slides and photographs from the days when Bersham was a working colliery.

Tony Jones, NWMAT’s resident lamp collector will also be on hand to talk about his extensive collection of miner’s lamps. If anyone has a lamp hidden away in the attic, bring it along for identification as Tony may be able to tell you a little of the history!

Stuart Tomlins will also be bringing along his electrically operated loco as well as a small stationary steam engine which is run by compressed air.

NWMAT’s popular mobile museum will be back in its usual spot where visitors can see and handle the tools of a miner’s trade. The 30 year old mobile museum which is taken out to schools and community events is financed entirely by donations.

As a charitable trust, NWMAT is always keen to welcome new members to keep the mining heritage of North Wales alive and well. If anyone feels that they would like to join the Trust please make contact via the website http://northwalesminers.com/ or phone 07888 693 413.