Hundreds of people turned out to pay their respects to those who lost their lives in the William Pit disaster.

Today marks 70 years since an explosion at the Whitehaven pit killed 104 people.

Relatives of the victims met at the head of the former coal mine to remember their loved ones. A memorial concert was also held on Saturday night.

Organiser Joe Hewer, who lost his father and his uncle in the disaster, said: "I am delighted it has gone so well, I expected at least 100 but this is closer to 250.

"There are still that many people alive who want to pay their respects. Everyone that turned out on Saturday had a good night too."

The service began with a rendition of 'Working Man' by Keith Burns before Paul Kerry, the vicar at St Bridget's, Moresby, spoke to the crowds.

There was then a one minute silence followed by family members laying flowers on the memorial.

Whitehaven Brass Band also attended the service and performed three songs - Abide With Me, Land of Hope and Glory and the Miners Hymn.

Mr Hewer read a poem, called 'Father was a miner', and Father Cenydd Marrison, of St Begh's, Whitehaven, gave a final blessing.

Copeland mayor Mike Starkie also attended the service and thanked everyone for coming.

Speaking afterwards, he said: "I was proud to attend the service to remember those who tragically died in the William Pit disaster, and other collieries in the area.

"Coal mining is part of our cultural heritage, and it is important that we pause to remember the lives lost, and the families that they left behind.

"Although the disaster was 70 years ago, its impact is still being felt across our communities, as many of those who died have relatives alive today, some of whom are here to mark this poignant anniversary. It was a fitting tribute."

People had travelled from as far away as Canada to attend the memorial service.

Victoria Norman, who helped Mr Hewer to organise the service, said: "My grandfather - Joseph Norman - was killed in the disaster. We wanted to mark the 70th anniversary.

"It was lovely, I couldn't have faulted it. I didn't expect so many people, it's great."

The 1947 disaster occurred when routine firing of explosive charges ignited firedamp [methane] and coal dust, causing a large explosion.

Only 14 were killed outright by the pit explosion and burn injuries - the rest succumbed to carbon monoxide created by the blast.

William Pit produced coal for 150 years before closing in 1954.