DID you work down in the pits or know someone who did? Or perhaps you are interested in what life was like for our region's miners?

If so, get along to Hartlepool Central Library in York Road on Friday, November 21, when people will be able to have a cup of tea while reminiscing with retired miners.

Staff from Beamish Museum will also be on hand with mining-related objects which you can discover more about and local author and historian Maureen Anderson will be signing copies of her new book Durham Mining Disasters 1700-1950s.

Librarian Diane Marlborough said: "For those of us who have never experienced it, mining seems a frightening and terribly hard way of life. "This is a great opportunity to find out first-hand what it was really like. Whether you're an ex-miner or a layman, please pop along and join in."

The free event starts at 2pm and refreshments will be provided.