Relief and joy as trapped miners are found alive
TWO goldminers trapped nearly 3,000ft underground for almost a week were found alive yesterday in what local people hailed as a miracle.
The tiny goldmining community of Beaconsfield, Tasmania, erupted in scenes of joy as news spread that two men were alive and should be rescued today.
Matthew Gill, the manager of Beaconsfield Gold Mine, said that Todd Russell, 35, and Brant Webb, 36, had been trapped since Tuesday, when a small earthquake triggered a rock fall that sealed them in the mine and killed one of their colleagues. "More information will be released as it comes to hand, but obviously the focus will be on the rescue effort," Mr Gill said.
Amid jubilant scenes on the streets of Beaconsfield, Mr Webb's son, Zach, said he hoped to hug his father tomorrow. "It's absolutely awesome. We've been jumping and screaming, kissing everyone, hugging and yelling," he said. "I was despairing but I am really happy now."
This article: news.scotsman.com
Last updated: 30-Apr-06 00:54 BST |
