The coal mining disaster that claimed the life of Richard’s great grandfather has inspired him and his son Robert to take action. Together with Hydro colleagues, they are continuing to support the restoration of the Wrexham Miners Rescue Station, honouring the 266 men who lost their lives and preserving a symbol of resilience and care for future generations in Wrexham.
Since 1913, The Miners Rescue Station has been an important institution in Wrexham. Originally built to train coal mining rescue teams, it has addressed several needs throughout the years. The aim today is to use the building as a community hub supporting, amongst others, young people, care givers and adults with learning disabilities.
To get there, the building needs restoration and ongoing maintenance.
For Richard and his son Robert, this project has a special connection because it honors the memory of his great-grandfather who was among the miners who tragically lost their lives in the Gresford coal mining disaster in 1934.
Recognizing the impact of the initiative and its potential for further positive contribution to the community, Richard took the initiative to secure additional funding from his employer’s “Just Transition Program” to enhance and expand its efforts.
“As someone who has a direct connection to the rescue center and having worked restoring this historic site before, I’ve seen firsthand how much this means to the families and community in Wrexham. For our family, this is personal. My great grandad was one of the 266 men that lost their lives in the 1934 Gresford Disaster. I’m glad that we can use Hydro’s resources to help strengthen and revive the centre. This not only helps raise awareness about what happened but also allows the building to be used by the community,” says Richard Tarran, Casting Specialist at Hydro Wrexham.
Maintaining historical connection and helping others
Richard and his colleagues first got involved in 2022, when Hydro Wrexham offered labour to bring the outside space at the rear of the building back into use as weaker market demand resulted in some reduced production at the plant. This year, they are helping clean and move old Ruabon Red bricks so they can be reused as the listed building is restored to its original condition.
The project aligns with Hydro’s Just Transition Program, which supports positive local development across Hydro’s operational areas.
“For me, this project is also about giving back to the community we are a part of. We don’t operate in isolation, and being a good neighbour is our license to operate. What happens outside our fences is just as important as what happens within,” says Richard.
One of Britain’s worst coal mining disasters
The 1934 Gresford Mining Disaster was one of Britain’s worst coal mining disasters. After the explosion, the Mines Rescue Station trained 30 local men to reopen the pit. The building was also used as a place where families could gather to mourn their loved ones. Since then, the building has undergone several changes and challenges.
“The station has always held a special place in the hearts of the people of Wrexham. Since we launched a new plan and purpose for the centre in 2022, we’ve been overwhelmed by the hundreds of stories people have shared about their own relatives. We wanted to harness that community spirit and add another layer of support. Beyond being a place to remember and talk about the miners, we also wanted the centre to be a hub for the community. We are grateful for Hydro’s assistance, which helps us to keep making a positive impact in Wrexham,” says George Powell of the Miners Rescue Station.
