Tributes for paralysed Sunderland mine worker who ‘paid the true price of coal’

Jeff Branson, who was left disabled following an accident at Wearmouth Colliery in 1992 has died aged 62.

Jeff Branson, of Castletown, passed away aged 62, on February 16, at the James Cook Hospital, Middlesbrough, after five weeks in hospital.

His death came 28 years after the Wearmouth Colliery tragedy, which happened on February 13, 1992, the day of his son Christopher’s eighth birthday.

Jeff and workmate Alan Curry were left wheelchair-bound when an underground train derailed, trapping them against a tunnel roof, killing two other men.

Jeff Branson seen here in his younger days.

But Jeff was determined to still enjoy his life. Among many other things, he was an accomplished snooker player who took part in the UK Wheelchair Snooker Championships.

He was also a frequent visitor to the gym and loved cruises and skiing. He was also in a “punters’ club”, which organised trips to the races.

Jeff gave huge support to Alan, who said: “After we had the accident he was the strong one, by far. He used to console me every day for the first two years.

“We did a lot together. We did fundraising for spinal injuries. We went round all the collieries and I think we raised over £6,000 by 1995 when the last one closed.

The Echo from February 13, 1992 led with the pit accident which left Jeff Branson in a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

“What he really enjoyed the most was coming down Fitness 2000, the gym on Roker Avenue. He would come down there every day, sometimes not to train. He would be there to socialise with maybe a little bit of training. It was to humour us all because he was a very funny guy.”

Jeff’s funeral took place at Sunderland Crematorium on March 4, with over 200 people attending.

Durham Miners' Association president, Alan Mardghum, said: “I remember the accident as if if was yesterday. That was the true price of coal and something we should never forget.

“Jeff was a great lad. He made the most of a terrible situation and kept on fighting to the end. It’s a really sad day. 62 is so young. But it was great to see so many people at the crem. It showed what a really popular lad he was.”

Jeff leaves behind Christopher, brother and sister Ronnie and Kath, and partner Kate.