Mine memorial to Gold Coast disaster hero

AN AFRICAN mine disaster rescue hero has been honoured in Wanlockhead, Scotland.

A plaque was unveiled this week in commemoration of villager William Jamieson who was awarded the George Cross for his bravery more than 60 years ago.

He was involved in a daring rescue of workers trapped in a mine in the former Gold Coast, now Ghana, in 1936.

But little was know of his award when he retired to the Dumfriesshire village where he was born.

And modest William, who died in 1965, told few of his gallantry.

It only came to light when his nephew, John Kirkhope, began researching the family history.

He discovered that William was the shift manager of the Ariston Gold Mine where the incident happened.

And that he had put himself in considerable danger to help free trapped mine workers.

William was originally given the Empire Gallantry Medal in recognition of his brave deed.

But it was later converted to the coveted George Cross after a review.

Mr Kirkhope contacted the Museum of Lead Mining in Wanlockhead during his research.

And he asked staff there to help him commemorate his uncle.

They arranged for the acquisition of a seat and plaque in his name.

It was unveiled on Wednesday at a quiet ceremony at Straite Stepps Cottages in the village.

Museum manager Gerard Godfrey said: “William Jamieson was born and raised in Wanlockhead.

“He retired to the village and that’s where he died in 1965.

“He was quite a modest man and he kept the knowledge of the George Cross award under his hat.

“John was doing some research into the family background and found some information about the medal.

“He felt it would be a nice gesture to ensure his memory was honoured.”