As the last colliery closed in 1973, mining for some will only be a memory, but for many residents, they may not be aware that the village in which they live was originally a mining community – and that many of the recreational facilities they enjoy today owe their existence to the mining industry.

Many of the recreational facilities originally provided for mineworkers still remain, like Paulton Rec, as recreational charities with trusteeship held primarily by Parish Councils.

The trusteeship of the Rec has been held by Paulton Parish Council since 1973.

The mining industry was unique in that it was the only industry that ever had a statutary obligation to provide money for social welfare of its employees and their dependents.

This began in 1920, when the Coal Industry Act compelled mining companies to pay one penny per tonne of coal produced into a welfare fund, of which 80% was spent within mining communities on recreation, health and education.

Between 1920 and 1952 over £40,000 of grant aid was provided by the Miners’ Welfare Fund to facilitate the introduction, development and maintenance of the recreational facilities for the Somerset Coalfield, an extraordinary amount of money in today’s terms.

Generations of Somerset people have enjoyed the recreational facilities, many of which like Paulton Rec still exist and thrive today.

Their existence is due to the generosity of the Miners’ Welfare Fund and the commiment of many individuals who act as trustees.

The recreational legacy of the mining coalfield is something to be proud of.

Paulton Bowls Club was formed in the mid twenties, sharing an existing wooden pavilion with the boys football team, the tennis club and children’s play area.

Later the bowls club closed due to lack of members and support, but in 1984 the club was revivied, with help from the Parish Council, and a new building was erected. Since then, dressing rooms, lounge a well stocked bar and a conservatory have been added.

The Green has been enlarged to allow County games to be played, the members’ ground staff work hard in making the surface one of the best to play on in the area.

In the early part of the 20th Century Paulton Rovers played their home games on the Rec.

On Saturday, 30th April everyone is invited along to the Bowls Club to celebrate and recognise the purchasing of the field 100 years ago.

The day is also a good chance to try bowls – there will be coaches there to advise and assist.

Bryn Hawkins