TWO historians are teaming up with a voluntary group who are planning to install a monument at the site of one of Torfaen’s worst mining disasters.

Clive Davies and Glyn Tilley have created a DVD, entitled ‘Early Coal Mining’ and all profits from the sales will be donated to the Llanerch Memorial Fund.

The Friends of Llanerch Memorial Fund are fundraising to build a monument on the site of the colliery which killed 176 men and boys in 1890.

“The DVD took up a considerable amount of time and work,” said Mr Tilley, who comes from a mining background.

“But both of us felt pleased to be able to offer the profits from its sale, contributing towards the proposed monument honouring lives lost underground in the Llanerch explosion.”

Ken Clark, the chairman of The Friends of Llanerch Memorial Fund, said: “For many years, people in our community have said a memorial should be provided to remind everyone of the terrible price paid by our forefathers to improve the working conditions we enjoy.

“We need funds if we are to mark the horrible deaths of the 176 men and boys at the Llanerch Disaster, with a lasting memorial which includes their details and how it happened.

“It is encouraging that noted local historians Clive Davies and Gwyn Tilley have made this DVD on local coal mining to support our fund.”

The DVD is on sale at Pontypool Museum and in local shops priced at £6.99, or by contacting 01495 773073 or ken.clark1@tesco.net.