THE end of the Selby coalfield came a step closer last night as another pit in the complex ceased production, leaving only one colliery working.
The last coal was brought up from the Stillingfleet mine, near Selby, North Yorkshire.
Its closure after 16 years leaves only one production unit working in the Selby complex -the Riccall mine, which is expected to close within months.
Stillingfleet Colliery, which once held the UK and European output record, employed about 180 men. Many of these will be transferred to other pits in the region, owner UK Coal said.
UK Coal business manager Bill Tinsley said: "Stillingfleet has been a mainstay of the Selby complex for many years.
"The lads have not enjoyed the best of conditions, but they have been professional to the end."
UK Coal announced the gradual closure of the Selby collieries two years ago, citing massive financial losses and geological problems.
The firm said it hoped to keep the Riccall mine open until mid-September, if output levels justified it.
Riccall manager Willie McGranaghan said: "The coal is there and the lads are keen to get it out and end on a high."
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