Emotional farewell for miner killed in floods

Philip Hill, 44, was laid to rest to the strains of Wasteland by 1980s supergroup Spandau Ballet in a tearful funeral service.

Up to 400 mourners crowded out Margam Crematorium in Port Talbot, South Wales, to pay their respects.

Tribute was paid to Mr Hill’s “drive” to stay in the area’s dwindling mining industry despite two decades of contraction.

Mr Hill was one of four men who died when water engulfed the Gleision Colliery in Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, on September 15.

Garry Jenkins, 39, David Powell, 50, and Charles Breslin, 62, also died in the underground flood.

The funeral took place two weeks after rescuers, who worked through the night, confirmed that all four men had died.

Reverend Peter Lewis presided over the brief service, which was relayed on speakers outside to up to 200 mourners unable to cram into the small chapel.

He spoke of the grief caused in the community by the deaths and also the need people had to talk about it.

“People have been stirred by events and they have wanted to communicate their love and affection,” he said.

“Many people have contacted me to say how much they have appreciated Philip in his life.”

He added that Mr Hill had recently spoken of his desire to remain in the mining industry for the next 20 years.

“He said that he had worked 18 years and had another 20 to give. That is a drive that many here will understand.”

The service was particularly difficult for Mr Hill’s family after the death of his mother and son in the past year.

Family members preferred to remain silent at the service and listened to the words of tribute passed on by the minister.

A few brief words written by the family were printed on the order of service at today’s funeral.

It read: “Much loved father of Leigh, Kyla and the late Simon. Dearly loved son of Peter and the late Merle. Dearest brother of Julie. Philip will be sadly missed by his loving family and friends.”

A statement previously released by the family spoke of the tragedy which has befallen it over the last 10 months.

“As a family we have endured much tragedy in the past 10 months with the loss of our beloved Merle Hill, mother to Philip.”