South Yorkshire Times, March 20, 1943

Warren Vale Closing

Manvers and Kilnhurst Taking Workers

The Warren Vale Collier between Swinton and Rawmarsh is to close on Saturday at the direction of the Ministry of Fuel and Power. The reason given for the closure is that it is for the ” efficient prosecution of the war.” The colliery employs 180 men.

Dr. H S. Houldsworth, Regional Controller for the North-Eastern Region, Ministry of Fuel and Power, stated that the decision had been reached after consultation with the Controller General and the Regional Coal Board.

” I have therefore requested the Ministry of Labour and National Service to give directions to the men employed there to present themselves for work at other collieries,” he said.

The bulk of the men will be transferred to Manvers Main and Kilnhurst.

The colliery, which is owned by the Warren Vale (High Hazel) Coal Co., Ltd., is comparatively new. The drawing of coal was started in 1937.

A pit-head canteen was installed at the colliery last year at a cost of over £2,000.

Some of the older men, who might be too old to be found work in the coal industry, will probably be absorbed into other work.

Dr. Houldsworth added: “This concentration of manpower is required in order to get the coal we shall require for next winter. The scheme will probably be widespread and not confined to Yorkshire.”