MINERS are held in high esteem by the Bevin Boys, who admired their courage, loyalty and compassion. During the dark days of the Second World War, they were as father figures to us and we remain eternally grateful to them.

Acceptable as Bevin Boy medals are, their true significance lies in the enduring memories they evoke of support and comradeship and I regard these awards as a tribute to all involved in the most hazardous industry known to man.

Born and bred in Lancashire, I can well appreciate the occupational restrictions placed on those who sought a livelihood.

In mining areas, work options were limited and successive generations were obliged to work underground.

Throughout the years there have been countless recorded cases of disabling injuries sustained by the miners, and so many still carry the legacy of lung disease, caused by dust inhalation. Above all, the loss of life runs into tens of thousands.

I feel that we can best acknowledge their sacrifice by joining in urging those in authority to initiate a National Miners’ Memorial Day when we can honour those heroic men who were, and still remain, the salt of the earth.

Derek Hollows, Bevin Boys Association, Altrincham, Cheshire.