These nostalgic photos capture men and women toiling away at sites in and around Derby and the wider county during the 60s and 70s.
From factories, caves and coal mines to roads and the railway network, these employees are seen working hard to bolster the region’s economy and keep things flowing smoothly.
Conditions could be brutal back then, as these images show, with back-breaking labour often carried out amid fierce heat and the deafening roar of machinery.
Do you have any photos from the time? Send them to [email protected].
5. 1962: Miner Frankie Vaughan
Swadlingcote Colliery, Derbyshire, Frank stokes the stove at his home with coal, while his wife Betty looks on. Frankie won the George Medal for rescuing two trapped miners. | Photo by Keystone Features/Getty Images
6. Rolls Royce aero engine factory, Derby
Chinese Premier Chairman Hua Guofeng smiles during a handshake with Secretary of State for Industry Sir Keith Joseph in front of officials while standing underneath an airplane engine at the Rolls Royce aero engine factory, Derby, Derbyshire, October 31st 1979. | Getty Images
7. 18th January 1972: Wives of striking Derbyshire miners hand in a letter to the Coal Board in Hobart Place. With them is MP for Bolsover, Dennis Skinner (centre).
With them is MP for Bolsover, Dennis Skinner (centre) | Getty Images
8. The aftermath of the Markham Colliery Disaster at Staveley in Derbyshire, UK, 30th July 1973.
Eighteen coal miners were killed that day when the brake-rod of a descending cage failed to engage. | Getty Images