Wakefield Coal Mining Museum Strike Extended Until Mid-October Over Pay Dispute

Industrial action by around 40 workers, including veteran mine guides, at the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield has been extended until mid-October amid a pay dispute. The union Unison claims the museum's chief executive, Lynn Dunning, has refused to return to negotiations after rejecting demands for a £1 per hour or 5% pay increase for all staff, which the museum considers unaffordable. The museum trustees argue they have offered above-inflation pay rises totaling 14% over two years, which they say is fair and ethical, but Unison disputes this and accuses management of withdrawing previously discussed proposals. The union also criticizes the museum for spending nearly £50,000 on private security and alternative visitor attractions during the strike, funds which it says could have met the pay demands multiple times over. Both sides express regret over the ongoing dispute, with museum leadership emphasizing the museum remains open with alternative experiences despite the strike limiting underground tours. Unison insists the strike will continue unless the chief executive engages in meaningful talks or steps aside to allow resolution.