Mine death: Owners say gas blow fatality of this sort is 'unprecedented'

Naturally everyone involved with Boulby is affected by this tragic incident. First and foremost our thoughts are with John’s family and friends and we will be doing everything we can to help and support them through this very difficult time

The investigations into the incident have already begun but they are at a very early stage.

We will be co-operating fully with the Mines Inspectorate in order that we can discover exactly what happened.

What we do know at this stage there was what we describe as a ‘gas blow’. A gas blow is a sudden release of a small amount of gas at exceedingly high pressure which also displaces mineral. These events are not uncommon and we have procedures in place to ensure safe working, there is no suggestion to say that these procedures were not being followed.

At this early stage of the investigation it would appear that this particular event was unprecedented.

Mining has its risks, however safety is always our first priority. We have begun an investigation and it is important that this is allowed to run its course."