Sadly I have to announce the death of my father Albert Knight. He was manager at Babbington from 1974 until his retirement in 1985 - which coincided with the closure of the pit.

He passed away at home on 6th March 2018 aged 92.

Here is a very short summary of his career...

He left school at aged 14 with no formal qualifications went to work on the railways, then joined the Navy in 1943. As he was in a reserved occupation he didn’t need to join-up, and as he was under 18 he actually had to lie about his age!
After the war he returned to the railways, but then went to work down the pit as it paid more money.

His mining career started at Shipley Coppice Colliery in 1948, working on supplies with a pit pony. In theory, he was in charge of the pony, but it knew more about the pit than he did, so the pony was the boss!

He later worked at Stanley, Ormonde, Cossall, Langton, Annesley and New Hucknall, before going to Babbington.

Pete.

I'm very sorry to hear of your loss Pete.

He sounds to me like a fascinating character with many a story. I can see why the underground is in your nature now.

Long may he explore that great mine in the sky.

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Thank you.

Pete.

Hi Pete
I knew your father well and worked at Babbington from 1974 - 1983 as Deputy Mechanical Engineer. Mr Knight was one of the best Managers Iv worked for and respected him greatly. You and I met on many occasions and my last meeting with your dad was at Sagres in Portugal when I was working as a tour Rep for Airtours.
He was on holiday and it was a pleasure to take him on a weekly mystery tour around Portugal This was in the year 2001
Sadly he has now gone to the pit in the sky. Hope to see you at his funeral this tuesday
John