The Guardian memorial was unveiled on 28th June 2010, fifty years after the colliery disaster that this impressive monument commemorates.

At approximately 10.45 on 28th June 1960 an explosion ripped through the Old Coal Seam of the Six Bells Colliery. The initial explosion raised coal dust which in turn ignited and spread throughout the workings. Forty-five men were killed. Lethal concentrations of carbon monoxide gas were present which suggested the men lost consciousness rapidly and death occurred within minutes.

More information here:
http://www.dmm.org.uk/pitwork/html/sixbells.htm