In pictures: Polish miners

Hopes are fading for the 15 Polish miners trapped beneath the ground in Silesia, the heartland of the country's coal industry.

Relatives held an overnight vigil as rescuers tried to save the men, attempting to pump air down the mine shaft.

Some put their faith in prayer, remembering the seven men who died during the methane gas blast on Tuesday afternoon.

Rescue work is being slowed by fears of a second explosion of suspected methane gas, a lack of oxygen and temperatures reaching 40C.

The mine shaft, run by a state-owned company, was closed in March because of high gas levels, but the miners had been sent down to gather valuable equipment.

Back

1 2 3 4 5

Next