We are all truly devastated by Gerry's sudden and tragic death.

We would like to pay tribute to everyone involved in attempts to rescue Gerry - all work colleagues; Kellingley rescue team; the air ambulance team and all other medics who were on site.  Their tireless efforts were not in vain, resulting in the successful rescue of the other trapped miner and everyone involved should take pride and comfort from that outcome.  That's what Gerry would have wanted.

Gerry, a dedicated miner for 32 years, was very proud of his Scottish roots.

Although residing in Sherburn In Elmet, Yorkshire since 1989 with his wife Brenda and their two boys, Sean and Andrew, he returned regularly to Scotland to visit his much loved family and friends in his former hometown of Shotts and to share his passion of following Celtic FC.  He was regarded as a significant and well known character in both communities, and the kind words of sympathy and support we have received in reaction to Gerry's death,

from both north and south of the border, are testament to that.He will be sorely missed.

Whilst we appreciate everyone's concerns at this difficult time, we would ask that the media continues to respect the family's wishes to be allowed to grieve in private.

Any queries can be directed to the HSE or North Yorkshire Police press offices.

Thank you

On behalf of the Gibson family