Alston has had numerous mines at one time but only two survive with
only one, Ayle still working just. They work a good quality semi-
anthracite seam. I've been told it is the Little Limestone seam that
Blenkinsopp works which has split in to two seams with Ayle working
the top one. The coal seam is about 18" to 20" high with coal
clearance still by tubs and a battery loco. Most headings are driven
with compressed air and a windy pick ! You need to be careful which
way you enter a heading with your shovel as it cannot be turned once
you are in I've been told. Production is about 10 tubs a day. The last
time I was there with a mines rescue practice there was four men
working. The pit was having trouble securing insurance for the place
and was going to have to run the place with two men. Clive Seal runs
the pit who leases the place from someone else. I will make further
enquires about the place you describe. We have two Deputys that
work at Blenkinsopp who come from Alston who may be able to shed
some light on it. There is a tunnel, the Nenthead force level which I
believe runs from Nenthead to Alston and I think exits near to what you
described. I am not sure about the history to it but I think most of the
minerals from Nenthead was sent in barges down the level and then
on to the railway at Alston.
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