For the last 10 years Phil Churchill has lived in the former home of Sid The Barber, a signalling cottage for the mine junction at Pantyffynnon colliery.

Since moving to the area, Phil has been fascinated by the history behind the colliery and is appealing for residents to help him with a project to collect as many photographs and information as possible.

He said: “I am intrigued to know what it looked like and I think photographs and testimonials should be collected and kept on a database.

“I think that memories are at the brink of dying and I am making this appeal so that we can keep the memories alive.

“Since speaking to people I am encouraged by the enthusiasm with which people recall those times.

“For instance, a man called Dennis recalls the nightclub by the level crossing called Fantasy Island run by Tick and Tock and the Tenby Arms by the station.

“I do hope there will be people bursting to tell their memories of the mine and their experience of it.

“I would like as many residents to get involved as possible.”

When there is enough material, Phil will then set up a website where all the photos will be stored and can be admired online.

“I was considering opening a museum at my home, but I decided against it,” added Phil.

“There will be more opportunity for people to see the images online.

“I am urging for people to talk to their parents and grandparents as I bet they have plenty of memories of the colliery.

“Check your attics and lofts to see if you have any old photographs.”

Phil’s appeal coincides with the launch of Ammanford’s Miner’s Fortnight which takes place until August 5.

If you would like to get involved in the project, you can visit Pantyffynnon Mine History on Facebook or email churchill.phil@googlemail.com.