Mexborough and Swinton Times December 10, 1897
Temporary Stoppage at Denaby Main
We are sorry to have to record a temporary, but compulsory stoppage of work at the colliery, in consequence of the breakage on Monday last of the winding rope drop shaft.
Before work can be again resumed the old shaft, which is 19 inches in diameter and 20 feet long, has to be taken out, and a new shaft cast, turned and fitted up again.
This work will take at least a fortnight to complete and the company have set to work as expeditiously as possible.
The accident has thrown out of employment about 1500 men and boys, just immediately before the Christmas season, which is looked forward to as the season of “Peace and plenty.”
Not only are the underground workmen affected, but also the greater part of the top men. The church people of the town will necessarily be affected by the stoppage.