Remembering the women who protested all-hours outside the pit gates in January

Women from East Durham braved the bitter weather in Seaham in January 1993.

A brave battle against closures and the elements

They remained outside the gates of the under-threat Vane Tempest colliery day and night.

Their battle was ultimately in vain as Seaham’s last pit closed in June 1993. There were bands, banners and lots of emotion for the final shift at Vane Tempest.

But it was one example of the vital role played by the Women Against Pit Closure group.

The WAPC group did vital work

Its work was especially important during the Miners Strike of 1984-1985.

Heather Wood, from Easington, set up the National Women Against Pit Closures group.

She spoke at last year’s Durham Miners Gala and said: “At the time we needed to get the women involved as without their involvement the strike wouldn’t last.”

NWAPC’s work included providing food and advice to mining families, taking on jobs and providing a voice when members went into politics.

Tell us if you were a part of the WAPC group and your memories of the vigils you staged. Email [email protected]