Traditional shanty singers have struck a chord deep underground at Britain’s last deep tin mine, which is preparing to reopen after closing in 1998.
The 21-strong Cadgwith Cove Inn Singers descended 25 fathoms – 150ft – beneath the surface at South Crofty in Pool, Cornwall, to belt out traditional songs.
The group were given a tour of the historic mine by its owners, Cornish Metals, which is working to bring the site back to life and create 300 jobs.
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South Crofty was the last deep tin mine in Britain and Europe when it closed in 1998 after around 400 years of mining.
Now, as work progresses to reopen the mine, the singers have given its underground tunnels a musical test run, as reported by What’s The Jam.
Bentley Orchard, one of the singers who has also worked in mining, described the experience as “phenomenal“.
He said the acoustics were resounding and reverberating – as if ‘the old miners were throwing the words back at you’.
The unusual performance followed a gathering earlier this year at the pub where the group regularly sing to mark the 28th anniversary of the mine’s closure.
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Cornish Metals ground production manager Steve Tarrant said it was a steep learning curve for the next generation of miners being trained at the site, but he was proud of their progress.
A company spokesperson added: “There was something quite special about hearing traditional Cornish songs echo through the tunnels of South Crofty.
“We were honoured to welcome the Cadgwith Cove Inn ‘Friday Nighters’ singing group to the mine site and underground, where they performed among the historic workings that once employed generations of Cornish miners.
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“Music, like mining, is woven into Cornwall’s identity, and the visit was a wonderful reminder of the traditions that continue to unite our communities today.”
Tori Plummer, of Cornish Metals, added: “Hearing the Cadgwith Cove Inn ‘Friday Nighters’ singing traditional Cornish songs in the historic workings underground at South Crofty was a truly memorable experience.
“It was a powerful reminder of the generations of miners who have shaped this site and the important place mining holds in Cornwall’s identity.
“As we work towards South Crofty’s future, we remain proud of the mine’s history and the role it has played in the lives of generations of Cornish families.”
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