These words greeted you on entering the website in 2005.

The Cornish Miners Association (CMA) was born out of a determination by ex-miners to remain as a close- knit community. Mining creates an environment that is unlike any other. The close friendship, camaraderie, dependence upon each other in dangerous situations underground, all unite to produce a community that is unique. When Edward I issued his great Charter of the Stannaries, in 1305, the legend around the seal referred to the Cornish Community of Tinners. In 1586, Thomas Bear described the community of tinners as unique for its closeness, loyalty to each other and selfless charity toward its poorer members. Their sense of community, of sharing and their sense of humour marked them out as separate - different.

  The CMA came into being when miners from Geevor, Pendarves, Wheal Jane and South Crofty formed a committee to create an association for ex-miners and mine workers. Its aim is to ensure that the community is not lost: it is to act as a focal point for socialising, mutual assistance, sharing of news and support, if it's needed, for the future of mining in Cornwall. Throughout Cornwall and those areas abroad where ex-pats live and work - sometimes generations after leaving Cornwall - thousands of former Cornish miners, mine workers and their families, see themselves as part of something important, significant and different. The CMA aims to help preserve this unique community which has existed for thousands of years in Cornwall and survives in Cornish communities in Australia, South Africa, West Africa, Mexico, the USA, Canada and a score of other countries and continents. All former miners and mine workers are invited to join and participate.