Memories Of A Bevan Boy

A Memory of Burnhope.

My late father, Eric Palmer, was stationed at Burn Hope colliery during the second World War, where he worked as a 'Bevan Boy'. He had many memories of his time there which he often shared with my sister and I. He was very fortunate to be billeted with a lovely family, The Ladlers, who treated him as they did their son George. Dad was not over keen on the mining but thoroughly enjoyed playing football for the local team. My sister still has the small piece of coal he gave to my mother which was used for 'First Footing'. I was able to get Dad's service medal, posthoumously. It is something I treasure and will eventually be passed on to my elder grandson.