Savile Colliery Methley

The Opening and Dedication of the Memorial took place on Saturday 24th June at 11.0am. The proceedings commenced at 10.40am when the Yorkshire Imperial Brass Band struck up and played as people assembled at the junction of Main Street and Station Road (old pit gates).

At 11.0am After thanking all the people involved in the project, Bill Thackray introduced Colin Burgon MP. At 11.05am Mr Colin Burgon officially accepted the Memorial on behalf of the village and former miners with an opening speech, then the NUM banner covering the sculpture was then moved aside.

11.15am A short prayer of dedication was offered by the The Rev. Mrs Ruth Crompton and Rev. Fr Michael Bootes. After which the band continued while the crowd dispersed for refreshments in the Ex Servicemens Club.

11.30am A display of photographs of the pit including many of the workmen was presented by the Methley Archive Group in the village centre.

The event was put on for former miners and their wives also children of former miners and all residents of the village.