Article from the Maryport Advertiser and Weekly News, 1^st September 1882

Fearfull Coal Pit Accident

An accident of a most serious nature occurred at Brayton Domain colliery on Wednesday afternoon, involving the death of one young man, whilst three others are more or less injured. It would appear that, according to rule, the men ceasing work do not ascend the shaft until two o'clock, and whilst many had assembled at the mouth awaiting their turn, a large quantity of coal and stone suddenly fell with a large crash from the roof and wall, burying beneath its ponderous weight John Thompson, who, when extricated, was found sadly mutilated and quite dead; Nelson Dobie, a putter lad, seriously injured across the back and extremities; Adam Johnston, leg broken below the knee; and John Harrison, foot injured. Dr. Briggs was soon upon the spot ministering to the sufferers. Harrison who lives at Hayton, was speedily removed home, the others residing close to the pit.

Poor Thompson was married but a fortnight ago, and was much respected by his fellow workmen. Harrison may be said to have had a most miraculous escape having just a moment or two before the fall risen from his seat along side of Thompson. This is the first accident of a fatal character upon the spot, at this pit, and the occurrence has caused quite a gloom over the neighbourhood.

Our Aspatria correspondent writing last night says: There is every reason to fear that the accident will result fatally in the case of Dobie also. He was fearfully crushed internally about the lower part of the body. He remained in a very critical state all Wednesday night, and yesterday there seemed to be no hope of his recovery. Towards the evening he was gradually sinking, though at first it was hoped that his youth (being only 19 years of age), and a good constitution would enable him to pull through.

The inquest on the body of the deceased man, Thompson will be opened to-day, (Friday) before Mr. W. W. Lumb. The jury will only be sworn, and the body identified prior to its interment, when the inquiry will be adjourned to allow the Government Inspector of Mines to be present.