WORKERS at one of the last remaining deep coal mines in the UK have been warned of potential redundancies by their Durham-based employers.

Maltby Colliery in Rotherham, which employs about 500 people, has been producing coal for more than 100 years, but the presence of gas, water and oil in the development of a new face has fuelled uncertainty over the site.

Its owner, Hargreaves Services, announced that it will issue the employees with notification of potential redundancies and will soon begin a statutory 90-day consultation.

A statement said: “Initiating this process is considered to be prudent business practice and does not indicate that a decision on the future of Maltby has been taken.

“The relevant Government department is being notified.

“The board of Hargreaves still expects to receive reports later in October that will advise on the geological, financial and health and safety risks.

“The decision by the board on the future of the colliery will be based on the conclusions of these reports.”