Chesterfield legend Brian the Singing Miner will be laid to rest next week

Chesterfield legend Brian Ashley will be laid to rest next week.
Brian in his heyday. Picture submitted.Brian in his heyday. Picture submitted.
Brian in his heyday. Picture submitted.

The 77-year-old - who was better known as Brian the Singing Miner - died peacefully last week.

His funeral service will take place at Chesterfield Crematorium at 11.50am next Tuesday. Following the cremation, tea and cakes will be available at East Clune Residential Home on West Street, Clowne, where he resided. Please make donations in lieu of flowers to East Clune Amenities Fund as Brian requested.

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Mr Ashley's obituary in this week's DT states: "He was born in Eckington and had lived locally all his life.

"He worked as a miner in his younger days and was involved in the rescue operation following the Markham Pit disaster in 1973. He continued to work in the mines until he retired following an accident.

"He was well-known in both Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire as Brian the Singing Miner and sang to packed pubs and clubs in the area with the band the Flying Pit Props.

"An avid football fan, he followed his beloved team Chesterfield Football Club, where for many years he had been a season ticket holder.

"He also enjoyed listening to music and watching television particularly sport, wildlife and comedy programmes."