Coal Mining Heritage

Today's photo is of a fabulous piece of Artwork that resides on the wall of the walkway between the Swadlincote High Street and the 'Pipeworks' Shopping Centre.
This artwork celebrates the Coal Mining culture that once dominated this part of South Derbyshire where we live.
The entire community developed around the Coal Mines.
Swadlincote, Moira, Gresley and Donisthorpe were small villages that grew as the Coal mines did.
Sadly, the 1980's spelt the end of the Mining industry in Derbyshire, and by 1990, the entire work force had to find alternative employment.
The whole area rapidly went down hill. Only now after massive investment in housing, covering the areas the Pits once presided, the community is now seeing an improvement in the quality of life for the locals. Also aided by new business developments, creating better employment opportunities.
I always pause and look at this artwork when I pass it by, so it seemed only fitting to share it with you all.
Kind regards
Gav