AN avenue of trees will be lit up in a poignant memorial of a mining town’s darkest day.

In 1951, an explosion in Easington Colliery killed 81 miners and another two rescue workers lost their lives as they tried to bring survivors out.

To mark the anniversary of the disaster, the 83 trees lining the town’s Memorial Avenue will be illuminated in remembrance of the men who lost their lives.

At 4pm on Thursday, Cllr David Boyes will switch on the lights ahead of a minute’s silence in honour of the men who died in the disaster and subsequent rescue.

The event will mark the beginning of Stories of Easington, a free after-dark event celebrating the past, present and future of the town drawn up by arts group East Durham Creates.

Nikki Locke, from East Durham Creates, said: “This moving tribute to the Easington Colliery pit disaster marks the start of an event which really celebrates the people and the town of Easington.

“The community has come together to create this wonderful evening which builds on the rich history and heritage of the town and looks to its bright future.”

Stories of Easington will include activities at venues throughout the town including performances by the Easington Colliery Band and the Easington Ukulele Group.

Avon Street, famously used as a backdrop for the hit film Billy Elliot, will be brought to life with festoon lighting and dance performances by local school pupils set to songs from the movie soundtrack.

There will also be events at the Dennis Donnini Memorial Garden, created in honour of a 19-year-old Easington soldier awarded the Victoria Cross in 1945, and also at the town’s Social Welfare Centre.

Brian Jolly from Easington Colliery Heritage Group said: “There are so many interesting stories in Easington which make us who we are today, we are very proud of this new and special event which will bring these to life and celebrate who we are as a community.”

Further details are available at eastdurhamcreates.co.uk