A PIT disaster which claimed the lives of more than 140 men and boys from all across the borough will be remembered tomorrow on what will be its 150th anniversary.

On December 6, 1875, an underground explosion at the Swaithe Main Colliery led to the deaths of 143 people some as young as 13 devastating their families and the community.

According to records, the fatalities involved people from Darfield, Wombwell, Jump, Platts Common, Blacker Hill, Measbrough Dyke, Stairfoot, Worsbrough Common, Hoyland, Worsbrough Dale, Hoyle Mill, Swaithe and the town centre.

It’s regarded as the most disastrous mining incident in Barnsley since the Oaks Colliery disaster claimed 361 lives in 1866.

Last month, an event was held at St Thomas’ Church and locals will gather tomorrow to mark the anniversary.

Councillor Jake Lodge, who represents the Worsbrough ward, said: “I’d like to offer my thanks following the recent Swaithe Main Disaster Memorial event.

“Helping to organise the event was a labour of love.

“It was a deeply moving and significant occasion, honouring the men and boys whose lives were lost in the tragedy, and it was made all the more meaningful by having the descendants of the victims present, connecting the past to the present.

“Seeing families come together to remember and reflect reminded us not only of the human cost of the disaster, but also of the strength of community and shared heritage that continues across generations.

“My sincere thanks go to everyone who helped make the memorial so special.

“The dedicated efforts of the Worsbrough Library Heritage Group and St Thomas’ Church ensured that the event was both respectful and beautifully organised.

“Thanks should also go to Michelle Toone and the Worsbrough Ward Alliance for support, and to the National Union of Mineworkers for allowing us to display banners.

“Tomorrow morning, please do what I’ll be doing and pause to remember the men and boys on what will mark 150 years to the day of the disaster.”