It was Christmas Eve, many years ago at Markham.
The Pit had closed and most workers had left to enjoy the holiday.
Only a small team of men was left at the pit top to supervise safety and security.

Mr. Elliot, a colliery official, was at home preparing to relax and start enjoying the festivities.
As he poured himself a drink, the telephone rang.

It was one of the safety men at the pit top, a person Mr Elliot knew well as being an honest and responsible worker.
"There's someone still below ! " came the message.
"Impossible !" said Mr. Elliot, "How do you know?"
"The phone from South Pit bottom has rang." came the reply.

It should be explained that the phone link from below had to be activated by cranking a handle which produced a signal at the winding room above.
It would be impossible to create a signal without using this method.

Mr.Elliot quickly contacted the Colliery Manager who ordered an immediate search to take place.
A team was hastily assembled and descended the pit to investigate.
After a long and extensive search no one could be found.

A thorough investigation was later instigated by the Colliery authorities and the phone link was checked and rechecked many times without any sign of malfunction.

Who or what had generated the mysterious Christmas phone call remains unexplained.