Crushed Between Tubs – Inquest on Young Colliery Worker – Carried 3000 yards

October 1930

Sheffield Daily Telegraph – Tuesday 21 October 1930

At an inquest at Denaby, yesterday, Francis J. Smith (17), colliery engine driver, of 24, Morton Road, Mexborough, who in the Denaby Colliery was fatally crushed by tubs the Coroner referred to the boy not being admitted the hospital until 5.30 although the accident occurred at 3 o’clock.

It was stated no time was wasted.

The boy had to be carried on a stretcher a distance of 3,000 yards below ground.

 

Leeds Mercury – Wednesday 22 October 1930

Crushed Between Tubs.

Inquest on Young Colliery Worker.

A verdict of “Accidental death” was returned at an inquest at Denaby, yesterday, on Francis J Smith (17), colliery engine driver, Morton Road, Mexborough, who received a fractured skull in Denaby Colliery.

Evidence was given that Smith was pulling a tub and walking backwards when his head struck a low bar. At the Same time his tub and another tub collided, and Smith was crushed between them.

The Coroner mentioned that the accident occurred 3 at O’clock, and Smith was not admitted to the hospital Until 6.30.

Mr. W. Still, on behalf of the colliery company, said no time was wasted in getting Smith out of the pit. First aid was rendered, and the men had carry the boy on a stretcher 3,000 yards below ground.