Sacriston Colliery shaft was sunk in 1838 and by the 1890’s the pit employed 600 men and young lads producing 1,000 tons of coal a day.By 1921 Sacriston boasted quite a large number of shops, businesses ect and a population of 8,423. Because of the exhaustion of thick coal seams, only 1,500 tons of best quality coal was being produced a week in 1975. Sadly, the last coal production was the 15th of November 1985 and the colliery was closed on the 28th December 1985.

There is still the tradition of Miners from all over the country and world coming together in July of each year for the big parade which is called Durham Miners Gala Day or, as we called it "Big Meeting Day"

Today Sacriston is mostly residential, there is a small industrial estate in the centre of the village and more housing estates have been built whilst still retaining the open countryside surrounding the village.The Memorial Institute with it's clock tower which is still a dominant feature of the front street has been turned into a Community centre with a variety of activities for young and old alike.

The Civic Trust were asked to carry out a survey of the village and produce a report on their findings and make recommendations for projects to be carried out in the village.The survey began in March and in June 2000 there was an exhibition when all members of the public had the opportunity to express their opinions.Meetings have already taken place between the sporting clubs and the community centre regarding the re-development of the present facilities. Other projects involving business and environment will also be undertaken.

One such project called "Colour in the Community" has already started and I must admit it looks very effective.The project involves the designing and painting of shop shutters turning them from the dull boring grey to scenes of colourful delight.