(A piece I wrote 40 years ago in support of retirement at 60 for mineworkers. Harold Wilson was Prime Minister and Derek Ezra was Chairman of the National Coal Board.  I was a young recruit)

 

At the end of this month I shall be 59

And for 44 years I’ve worked in the mines

When once I was strong, for my health I now fear

I ought to retire at the end of the year.

 

I’ve worked in the Thorncliffe since the day I left school

And sometimes she’s a good seam but she’s usually cruel

She’s given us coal, boys, that the bunkers could bust

But she’s taken my fingers and given me dust.

 

I’ve given my best in blood, sweat and tears

And all that I’m asking’s for these last five years

All that I’m asking’s for these last five years.

 

Twenty two inches is the worst that I’ve had

And five days a week, boys, that isn’t so bad

52 weeks, boys, that isn’t so rough

But 44 years is more than enough.

I’ve given my best in blood, sweat and tears…

 

In Nottingham, Barnsley and Ponty as well

On mechanised faces and on some I’ve hand-filled

I’ve ripped and I’ve sheared, I’ve filled and I’ve bored

But when I reach 60 I’m working no more.

I’ve given my best in blood, sweat and tears…

 

Now Sir Harold and Sir Derek are good men and true (spit)

But when a man’s reached 60 there’s no more he can do

If retiring at 60’s for them and for you

Then I’m bloody well certain it’s for colliers too.

I’ve given my best in blood, sweat and tears…