In the mines the work was tough
There was food but never enough
It was dangerous, wet and cold
I will work here until I grow old
The only thing that pulled me through
Was knowing I’d be coming home to you
Just keep trekking on
To our faithful friendly song
From one danger to another
When I signed up with my brother
It was dangerous, wet and cold
Now I fear I will never grow old
The only thing that pulled me through
Was knowing I was getting letters from you
Just keep trekking on
To our faithful friendly song
The colour is draining from my face
I have lost this brutal race
I will not see my unborn child
This is my last goodbye
The only thing that pulled me through
Was dreaming I’d be coming home to you
But there’s no more trekking on
No more faithful friendly song
(Pupils at St. John's Catholic School, Bishop Auckland)