ONE of Burnley's pits, Hapton Valley Colliery, was the scene of a dreadful explosion on March 22, 1962 and 10 men and boys lost their lives. Many others were injured.

To commemorate this tragic event on its 40th anniversary, I am hoping to bring out a booklet on the history of the pit and the disaster.

All proceeds will go to the Hapton Valley Disaster Fund which pays for In Memoriam notices and floral tributes on each anniversary of the event.

Forty years on, funds are at a minimal level and I am seeking donations to aid publication of the booklet.

A list of all who contributed will be included in its foreword. Please send your donation to Bobby Clarke, trustee of the disaster fund, at 9 Rossall Close, Padiham. For further information, contact him on 01282 771694 or myself.

JACK NADIN, 20 Willow Street, Burnley BB12 0RE. Tel 01282 454927.