'We must never forget the 266 men and boys who lost their lives'

MS for Wrexham

Yesterday marked 90 years since Wrexham experienced one of its darkest days.

On 22 September, 1934, 266 men and boys failed to return home from their shift at Gresford Colliery. At around 2am, a massive explosion in the Dennis Section of the colliery occurred resulting in one of the worst mining disasters in our history.

A number of events have taken place remembering the 90th anniversary of the tragic loss of life. A poignant service took place at the Gresford Colliery monument, which was very well attended, and it was an honour to be invited to a special memorial service at All Saints’ Church in Gresford by the Friends of Gresford Colliery Disaster Memorial.

We must never forget the 266 men and boys who lost their lives that fateful night and the devastating impact it had on the local community. We are fortunate to have the Wrexham Miners Project, led by George Powell, who in restoring the Wrexham Miners Rescue Station, is saving our mining history.

There is still time for young people in Wrexham with a passion for politics to stand to be a candidate at the next Welsh Youth Parliament election.

Applications close next week on Monday 30 September, with the election due to take place in November.

First established in 2018, the Welsh Youth Parliament offers Wales’ younger generation the chance to have their say on the things that matter to them.

Sixty young people aged 11 – 17 will be elected in November to the Youth Parliament to sit a two-year term. Young people in Wales elect forty members, with the remaining 20 selected by partner organisations.

As a Welsh Youth Parliament Member, you’ll be able to identify, raise awareness and debate the issues that are important to young people in Wrexham and across Wales. It is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and develop your skills.

If you’re interested in representing Wrexham as a Welsh Youth Parliament Member, or you know someone who is interested in politics and wants to make a difference in their community, you can register your interest online ahead of next week’s deadline. Alternatively, if anyone’s keen for further advice or support, please get in touch.

The Welsh Youth Parliament gives our younger generation a voice and I would urge everyone aged between 11 and 17 to register to vote ahead of the election in November.

If you’re a constituent and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me via email: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales or call 01978 355743.