Hero’s watch to go on display at museum

A precious memento was handed over to the retired miners’ committee to mark the 100th anniversary of the Stanrigg disaster.

Longriggend miner John McCabe, then aged just 17, saved lives on the day of the disaster by running for a quarter of a mile back inside the pit to warn other workers – all of whom were able to escape.

He was honoured for his bravery by being awarded the Edward medal and an inscribed watch; with the latter now having been presented to the local mining historians by his relatives.

Now the Stanrigg memorial committee plan to put the historic watch on show at Summerlee industrial heritage museum in Coatbridge, and are also sourcing a replica of his royal medal.

Peter Downie, who received the precious watch from the family on behalf of the group, said: “Instead of running back up to the surface like anybody would have done, John McCabe ran to warn colleagues in the lower seams.

“The ‘humph’ [where the disaster occured] was the highest point of the pit, with the other seams being lower – he went back, shouting and waving, and all of the other men got out.

“He was awarded the Edward medal for his deeds and was also given this watch, which is suitably inscribed.

“It was presented by his family this week, and it was unexpected and a lovely thing to have, especially at the centenary. We’re meeting with Summerlee officials about displaying it there and are also in the process of seeing if we can obtain a duplicate of his medal to go with it.”