Cyril's post reminded me of the words of a poem/song that I was given a few years ago, written by an unnamed Avoca miner sometime around the 1960's, his own version of The Tunnel Tigers, I thought perhaps it might just be of interest. (St Patrick refers to the 1960's name given to the mines) THE TUNNEL TIGER I took a trip to Avoca a year ago today I finished at the hostel there was no place else to stay They dressed me out in oilskins and a pair of rubber boots. There was only two ways to it boys, was work or get your books. Fair play to the Tunnel Tigers for they’re a jolly crew. They were Scottish, English, Polish and the lads from Ireland too. But Scottish, English, Polish we never gave a dam, We had to let St Patrick see the best of tunnel men. When the hard days work was over we went to the wet canteen, There was more tunnels driven there than Wimpey ever seen. They were driving through the floor, For Jelly Reek and air bags you could not see the door. Fair play to Tunnel Tigers for they’re a jolly crew. There was pat Mc Daid, Mc Calley and John & Frank Mc Hugh, The pride of all from Donegal and poor old Yorkie too. Fair play to tunnel tigers for they’re a jolly crew. When we went to The Meetings, we went there on the spree, The lasses gathered round us for they knew the drinks were free And when the money was all gone, there was nothing else to do, They said go home dear Paddies we have no more time for you. Now there was a man called Stephan with him we could not agree And before we leave Avoca I hope you wait and see That Pat McDade, McCalley and the two McHues and me Will leave the Polish so and so, hanging from a tree. Regards Daz