Mexborough and Swinton Times September 25, 1896
Sudden Death in Denaby Main Pit
A painfully sudden death occurred shortly before eight on Friday morning, when Thomas Lawton, a sub deputy, residing at 36, Rock Terrace, Mexborough, died under very sad circumstances.
Whilst conversing with Mr HS Witty, the assistant manager of the colliery, who, together with representatives of the workmen, appointed for the purpose, were making an examination of the pit at the time, he was seen to fall without the slightest sign pain or illness, and on being picked up was found to be quite dead.
The affair naturally caused a sensation as it became generally known, and in accordance with custom, work was suspended for the remainder of the day.
The facts were communicated to the coroner, who, however, decided not to hold an inquest, because of death being apoplexy and not an accident.
The deceased was 51 years of age, and was well-known at Denaby Main, having been employed there a good many years. Interment took place at the Mexborough Cemetery on Sunday afternoon.