South Yorkshire Times, February 2nd, 1934
Four Generations
Brampton Veteran
Two Big Thrills in 83 Years
Here are four generations – all interested in the “South Yorkshire Times,” down to the little one who intends to enrol in our “Children’s Corner.” The veteran is Mr. Albert Lomax, (83) of 36 Knollbeck Road, Brampton, Wombwell. On his right is his son, Mr George F. Lomas of Elsecar Road, West Melton and holding the baby is his grand-daughter, Mrs. Winifred Mary Walker of Wentworth. Sarah Joyce, the great-grand-daughter is aged 3.
Great grandpa Lomas was born at Hyde, Cheshire and at the age of eight began work in a cotton mill in Manchester. The American Civil War knocked the cotton industry flat and he came into these parts at the age of 12 to commence work at Earl Fitzwilliam’s colliery at Hemingfield. He continued to do his daily “whack” underground until the old mine at Tingle Bridge closed down 13 years ago.
Down the vale of life Mr. Lomas has kept on an even keel but he is able to look back on at least one big thrill. He was riding in a train which was wrecked in a collision near Stairfoot station on December 12th, 1870, and of the passengers 15 were killed and 40 injured. He came off without a scratch, although one or two relatives lost their lives.
Also he was at Old Oaks Colliery, near Barnsley, in 1866 when some of the dead were being brought out. He was then a boy of 15. His wife’s brother was one of the victims.
Mr. Lomas has a contented mind and keeps fit by walking. Only twice has he been to the cinema, although as an old age pensioner he could attend free at the Wath Grand.