Kellingley Colliery set to close next week

The end of coal production at the UK's last remaining deep coal mine is scheduled to take place in a week's time.

UK Coal confirmed that Kellingley Colliery in North Yorkshire is set to close on December 18, bringing an end to deep coal mining in this country.

The 450 miners who work at the pit - known locally as ther Big K - will receive severance packages at 12 weeks' of average pay.

Lamp room at Kellingley Credit: @markwittyitv

Chris Kitchen, general secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, told the Press Association: "It's a sad day now that the closure date has been confirmed.

"I am sure people will argue not burning coal is better for the environment, but as far as I am concerned this is another vindictive act."

Miners preparing to go in the pit cage to take them underground Credit: @markwittyitv