I have often wondered what it would be like to work/own a small coal mine. Recently, I came across your informative website and was fascinated to see someone had had the same thought, William "Billy" Clayton, who works in his own Hilltop colliery.
I wonder if anyone could tell me if the Hilltop mine last worked by William Clayton is still operating, and is Mr Clayton, an example of steely determination, still working it on his own?
Is this really the last coal mine in Lancashire, private or otherwise?
Are there any small coal mines such as this operating near Manchester?
Sorry for so many questions.
Colin