The end of coal production at the UK's last remaining deep coal mine is scheduled to take place in a week's time.
UK Coal confirmed that Kellingley Colliery in N Yorkshire is set to close on December 18, bringing an end to deep coal mining in this country.
The 450 miners who work at the pit - known locally as ther Big K - will receive severance packages at 12 weeks' of average pay.
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Chris Kitchen, general secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, told the Press Association: "It's a sad day now that the closure date has been confirmed.
"I am sure people will argue not burning coal is better for the environment, but as far as I am concerned this is another vindictive act."