Coalmining has been a feature I the Leicestershire landscape for hundreds of years but until an archaeological excavation at the Lounge Open Cast Coal Mine in 1991 little was known about the extent of the medieval mines or the miners.

The talk is given by Stuart Warburton, then Curator of Science and Industry at Snibston Discovery Park and leader of the excavation/research project and will look at the collection of finds and archaeological surveys which rewrote the history books with outstanding new information.

This illustrated talk looks at the technology and social history of medieval coalmining at the time of the War of the Roses i.e. 1450s - 1480s, and the mining equipment which was found will be discussed as well as the oldest piece of working-class woollen clothing found in the country - the Lounge Tunic - and how it was made and who wore it. 

Cost: £4, including light refreshments. Pay on the door - cash or card