A SHOW which will illustrate the horrific disasters of coal mining will be held at The Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton at 7.30 pm on Tuesday, April 2. Coal mining was a dangerous trade, and underground explosions were the most feared and deadly of the many threats that colliers faced. Colliery Explosions: The Musical explores the science and history of these horrific disasters to explain why they happened and what was done to prevent them.

The show combines live science demonstrations, small (and safe) explosions, live music, and will tell the stories of pioneers like George Stephenson and Humphry Davy, who used their inventive genius to make mining safer. It also remembers the many victims of the long struggle to tame the pitmens’ greatest enemies, firedamp and coaldust.

The show is written and presented by industrial historian, science presenter, folk musician, and local resident Richard Ellam who has been interested in the history of coalmining for more than 40 years.

Richard said: “It is a privilege to be presenting this show here in the heart of the old Somerset coalfield.”

Proceeds from the presentation will go to Radstock Museum, charity number 151573. More details can be found at www.radstockmuseum.co.uk.