In 1908 the Cannop Colliery Company was formed and ran the company until 1946. Pumps were used to control the water and Cannop Brook was modified using concrete and masonry to reduce, or prevent, further leakage into the pits. It was a constant battle!

As seen in the photograph (right) extensive buildings, a chimney and numerous tramways were constructed at the site.

The sidings connected to the Wimberry Branch of the Severn and Wye Railway.

Employment numbers (left) show how important Cannop Colliery was to the Forest of Dean.

It is calculated that 1140 million gallons of water were pumped out of the workings in 1928 alone!

In 1947 it was nationalised by the National Coal Board and continued operating until September 1960. It was the very high cost of pumping the water from workings that led to its' closure.