Sunday 30th, January 2005 - Market Hotel, Elsecar
Frank Burgin organised yet another memorable swap meeting at the now regular and very popular venue of the Market Hotel in Elsecar, South Yorkshire. Thanks again to Frank and his wife for arranging such a great day and spread of food.
The meeting was well attended with upwards of 25 members making there way to Elsecar from as far a field as South Wales, the East and West Midlands, Merseyside and County Durham. Several new members were in attendance and as usual it was nice to meet them all for the first time. The meeting opened slightly earlier than planned around 09:30 with a dozen or so members still being in attendance after 13:00.
Just three of the tables of miners' lamps and colliery memorabilia which were on sale to members.
The meeting had something for everyone from the local mining history enthusiasts who were keen to exchange stories and information through to both the novice and battled hardened memorabilia collectors. There was an abundance of commoner pit checks plus a record number of miners lamps for sale at this meeting. Other more unusual colliery items were also available from methanometers to explosives carrying canisters and even some enamelled mine signs. Check and badge swapping amongst many of the members playing its usual important focus for the mornings even.
More miners' lamps and pit hardware for sale and for trade from John Hancock of County Durham.
Jeff Thompson brought many of his collection of mining medals, badges and miners' association checks with him which were displayed for all to enjoy.
A camera shy Jeff Thompson hiding behind part of his fantastic display of rare miners' association checks/badges.