Springwell Colliery

Miscellaneous Notes and Incidents

The gallant act of a miner named Robert Richardson in saving the life of a pit pony at Springwell Colliery, Durham, was suitably recognised when he was awarded the Bronze Medal by the Royal Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Daily Herald Order for Industrial Heroism.

Richardson was acting deputy at the time of the accident. He was going inbye at the beginning of his shift when he heard a disturbance in the roof. At that moment a driver and pony were nearly under this disturbed roof and Richardson shouted to the driver who got clear, but the pony and tubs were caught by the fall. The pony was unhurt being protected by a fallen girder, and at great personal risk Richardson ultimately got it out alive.

Source: 1929 Mines Inspectors Report