The collieries of East Durham employed thousands of people and we have 9 reminders of the industry.The collieries of East Durham employed thousands of people and we have 9 reminders of the industry.
The collieries of East Durham employed thousands of people and we have 9 reminders of the industry.

10 photos of an industry which once thrived on our doorstep - did you work there?

It is 28 years this month since a pit which employed hundreds of people closed for the last time.

Easington Colliery had 1,400 people on its books when it shut in May 1993. Its near neighbour Blackhall Colliery, which once employed just under 2,500 people, closed 40 years ago this year.

Today, we look at the industry which shaped so many lives. We have archive photos from Easington, Blackhall and another near neighbour Horden which shut in 1987.

Can you spot someone you know? Did you work in the pits yourself? Take a look at our photos and then get in touch with your memories.

Related topics: