September 22nd marks 89 years of one of the most harrowing tragedies in Wrexham. With a significant loss of lives, this grim chapter began after a catastrophic explosion rocked a mine in 1934. Today, as the Wrexham community pays tribute to the lives lost, Wrexham AFC co-owner Ryan Reynolds joined hundreds of supporters on social media to share condolences.

A total of 266 lives were lost on the fateful day of the tragedy. Also, what makes it even sadder is that the miners were put on a double shift, not to earn extra money, but to be free to watch a soccer match scheduled for later that day.

Memories of the Gresford disaster still haunt the Wrexham community

On September 22, 1934, a devastating explosion rocked the Gresford Colliery’s Dennis section, plunging over 500 miners into a nightmare. Many of them had doubled up on shifts to catch a soccer match later that day, unaware of the impending tragedy. The rescue mission was a harrowing ordeal, as rescuers confronted searing heat and danger. In a tragic turn, three brave rescuers lost their lives while attempting to explore a return airway.

Despite valiant efforts, the rescue operation yielded minimal success, with only 11 bodies recovered, all succumbing to carbon monoxide poisoning. The mine shafts were eventually sealed due to their perilous conditions, but tragedy struck again when a subsequent explosion shattered one of the seals, claiming the life of a workman. Yet, amidst the sorrow, the spirit of the Wrexham supporters endured as a soccer match between Wrexham AFC and Tranmere Rovers proceeded, both teams wearing black armbands, and a somber minute’s silence was observed.

In the wake of the disaster, plans emerged for a united Chester & Wrexham XI to face off against the full Wales national team, rallying support for the victims’ grieving families. The community came together, raising more than $613,000 in funds to aid the dependents of the victims. An inquiry into the catastrophe revealed alarming lapses in management, a dearth of safety measures, and deplorable working conditions. Gresford Colliery did eventually reopen, but it succumbed to economic pressures. It shuttered its doors in November 1973, leaving behind indelible memories that still haunt the hearts of many Wrexham supporters.

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Today marks the 89th anniversary of the tragedy. The co-owner of the Welsh club Ryan Reynolds along with several Wrexham supporters extended their deepest sympathies on social media.

Ryan Reynolds and hundreds of Wrexham fans pour in condolences

The fans of the Welsh club expressed their grief with a heavy heart. The club’s official account post on Instagram saw many honoring the brave men who lost their lives. Showing his compassion for the community, Ryan Reynolds also shared his sympathies by liking and sharing the post by the club on Instagram.

Under the club’s official Instagram post, a fan wrote, “Respect and blessings to their family and this town on this day, and every day.”

A user by the name of davesides7 commented, “Big respect, my family worked there.”

Another fan shared his story saying, “I was one of the two bricklayers that cladded the slate on that monument.”

The club’s X post also received sympathy from the age-old fans of the club.

One supporter wrote, “RIP one and all”

Another fan expressed condolence, “RIP to the poor men and boys that perished, and solidarity with the families who were left orphaned, widowed and to fight for justice.”

Indeed an unforgettable incident for many.

Another fan by the name of Ultan Finegan wrote, “RIP and May their memory never fade.”

An X user, Peter Taz Evans wrote, “Never forgotten.”

Another user by the name of Paul Carter wrote, “Rip to those brave brave men.”

The tight-knit Wrexham community always draws strength from their unity, standing together in solidarity in difficult times.

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