Non-fatal Accident

Thomas Appleby

Durham Miners' Association
Compensation Department

Handon Hold. Thomas Appleby, 23, pony putter.

On 1st May, 1925, this man had his head crushed between two full tubs. Full compensation was paid for three months when he commenced light work in the pit and he continued at such for two weeks when he tried his ordinary work. However, he only worked three shifts when he again fell off. Full compensation was again paid and continued until he ultimately commenced light work at bank and he continued at such until 2nd March, 1926, when he was ordered to return to his own work on a report of Dr. Johnson (the Owners' doctor) who reported on 17th February, 1926, as follows :—

"I have this day examined Thos. Appleby and I hereby certify that he has recovered from his injury. Complains of vague pains in head. His condition is such that he is fit for ordinary work."

Dr. Mackenzie (the man's own doctor) on 17th March, 1926, reported as follows :—

"Present Condition. — He complains of what he describes as a bumping pain in the vault of the head while at work ; also shooting pains in the head. These pains are worse when down the pit and when he gets heated. Hearing and eyesight normal. Other organs normal. Urine: Sugar nil. Albumen nil.

Opinion. — No natural causes found to account for his distressing symptoms and they must in my opinion be due to his accident rendering him unfit for pony putting."

Mackenzie is still off work and now claims full compensation.

Settled.

Source: NEEMARC - Ref: NUMDA/6/1/1/6, Reports of the Compensation Department, Vol VI covering Jan-Dec 1926

If you are researching Thomas Appleby (e.g. for family tree purposes) and you would like to hear from others with the same interest then please complete the details in the following form. We will show the information you provide on this page so that you can be contacted.