THIS image is a haunting reminder of a black day in the history of mining in Burnley.

For on March 22, 1962, an explosion ripped through Hapton Valley Colliery and 19 men lost their lives - here miners and the emergency services work together to tend the injured.

It's believed that more than 330 men and boys have lost their lives in the Burnley area since mining of the Lancashire coal seam started centuries ago.

Now a group of people have formed a Burnley Mining Memorial Fund to raise enough money for a permanent epitaph in the town - a move backed by the local council.

While a suitable location is now actively being sought, the group has started a Facebook page, for money raising ideas and contributions and where design suggestions can also be put forward.

Former miner Jack Nadin said: "There must be hundreds of former miners and families out there willing to help this worthy cause. We have set a target of £75,000 which we are confident will provide a lasting memorial to those who worked in the industry, in horrible conditions - so that we can record for ever the names of those who died in Burnley's pits."

Further details from Jack, telephone 07931936276, or visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/192905974652293.