h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

It is twenty years since the start of the Miner’s Strike. An event referred to as the UK’s last Civil War. Whatever the description it did prove to be a significant catalyst for mining communities throughout the UK. It was a humiliating defeat for proud people and traditions. To some observers the most striking characteristic was the Government’s lack of compassion, intransigence and single-minded intent to crush the stubborn resistance of a once powerful body.

It appears that now is the time to rewrite history. Events that were ignored during the strike are now being re-examined in a different light. It is strange to observe how the passage of time has clouded issues and allowed people to change the views they expressed twenty years ago. Some comments could be considered comical, but for the insult they imply. For example, how abuse of civil rights and liberties can be ameliorated to mere erosion.

Surely there is temptation to nurse the hurt and fuel the wrath caused by injustice. However, I was witness to an event that proved heartening for the soul and was reaffirming of faith in human nature. I make reference to the actions of people and not the political posturing of individuals. However, I must stress the point that these are people who were persecuted twenty years ago. Yet, they continue to support the principles and belief in the yearlong struggle and still contribute to and uphold the fabric of society, without bitterness.

God bless the miners of South Kirkby Colliery.