A tribute to "The heroes of Sneyd" from City Voices Creative Writers

Fifty seven miners who died in a pit disaster over seven decades ago will again be commemorated at a special service.
The memorial service will be held at Holy Trinity Church in Burslem on the first Sunday of January 2016.
The miners died following a massive explosion 800 yards (731 metres) underground early on January 1, 1942.

Fifty-five men and boys were killed immediately, with two more dying of their injuries in hospital. Friends and relatives of the victims have gathered each year to remember their loved ones.

In addition to this years' service, Father Brian Williams has kindly given permission for a play to be performed in the church, as part of the service. The play, which was written by City Voices member and founder Paul Williamson, tells the story of the disaster and the terrible
night-long vigil held by the women of Sneyd as they waited for news. The play will be acted by members of City Voices, and rehearsals have been under way for some time, with input from Father Brian.  

Paul was born and bred in the Potteries - it is in his blood. He has in the past written and produced plays, biographies, and a folk drama of poems, prose and songs.

Paul's play "The Heroes of Sneyd" is a piece of work written from the heart.  After the Memorial Day the play will be performed at other, local venues. I am sure it will find an appreciative audience. City Voices salute Paul for all the hard work he has put in to writing and producing the scripts. Paul will no doubt say that it was a labour of love, and that he is honoured to pay tribute to the men and boys who died supporting the war effort by working down the pit on New Years day. 

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