A PENSIONER'S appeal for information about her grandfather's heroic role in the North-East's worst pit disaster has brought to light new information about the tragedy.

Brenda Hutchinson, 74, wanted to find out more about a medal given to her grandfather, John Smiles, who was a rescuer in the 1909 West Stanley Burns Pit Disaster.

Her story appeared in yesterday's Northern Echo and Stanley historian Bob Drake has since passed on fresh information.

Mr Drake has been unable to find out much more information about John Smiles, but he believes he may know something about the man who presented the medal, P. Joice.

Mrs Hutchinson said: "It seems there was a man called Paddy Joice who was the last man to get out of the mine and was also the last survivor to die. It would fit that he would present the medal.

"I've been reading so much about the disaster and how it affected my family in the last few days. It was tragic but fascinating."

In total, 168 men and boys died in the explosion. The Northern Echo is running a campaign to commemorate the 54 victims who still lie buried in unmarked graves.

So far nearly £3,000 has been raised. To donate money, help with the appeal or to pass on information, call reporter Chris Webber on (01642) 675678.