Mexborough and Swinton Times April 13, 1928

Took A Chance
And Paid With His Life
Conisborough Shunter Killed

Mr WH Carlile conducted an inquest at Conisbrough on Wednesday relative to the death of Naaman Beeson (37), foreman shunter of 66 Ivanhoe Rd, Conisbrough, who was killed at Manvers Main Colliery on Monday.

A verdict of “Accidental Death” was returned.

The Coroner said at about 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 23, deceased was attempting to break a wagon on a slight incline at the colliery, although there were being pushed up the gradient by an engine. The pole he was using got caught between the wagons and a pillar at the side of the line, and Beeson was flung under the wheels.

Reginald Edgar Downing, brother-in-law, 28 Church St, Conisbrough gave evidence of identification.

George Frederick Young, 30 Crossgate Mexborough, shunter said he was working with deceased when the accident occurred. There were three wagons being pushed up an incline of about one in 60. Beeson put his pole to the brake rod in attempt to stop the wagons. The pole caught against a pillar at the side of the line, throwing deceased under the wheels of the second wagon. The train was stopped immediately. Deceased was almost cut in two.

Replying to the coroner, witness said it was usual to brake wagons in that manner

HM Inspector (Mr RE Hall): Did you not shout to warning that he was near the post?

He was active and experienced, and I did not think it necessary. Witness added that deceased had done the same thing many a time.

Frank Tyler, screen man, of 10, Winterwell Road, West Melton, said he assisted in getting deceased from under the wheel. The pole was broken about a foot from the end.

The Coroner remarked that this was a case where a man had taken unnecessary risks. He ought never to have attempted to brake the wagon on the side where the post was. Unfortunately, he had paid with his life.

Mr. George Price, manager of the colliery, expressed sympathy with the relatives.