Being underground magnified the banter that workers relied on to get through their shifts. Big 'characters' like this solid Fifer – and NUM branch secretary – are well remembered. 'He stormed up to the Time Office (when the previous guy had died or left the pit) and demandit that he be given the (Check) number '1690', which he then proudly wrote on his helmet, next tae a painted Union Jack.'  Peter McCutcheon, former miner at Seafield Colliery, Kirkcaldy, Fife remembering his colleague. Lochore, Fife, 8 August 2023.