Honouring Desmond Cutts: A Legacy in Steel and Stone

Last year, we mourned the loss of our beloved Works Manager, Desmond Cutts. Des was more than just a colleague; he was a cornerstone of Wright Engineering, a mentor, and a friend. His dedication and craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on our company and the communities we serve.

A few years ago, Des played a pivotal role in fabricating a headgear monument for Firbeck Colliery, now proudly standing in the Firbeck Colliery Memorial Gardens in Langold. 

This project was close to his heart, not only because of its significance but also because it was a tribute to his family's history and heritage in the mining industry. Des's father worked at Firbeck Colliery from the time he left school until its closure in 1968, transitioning from a painter, who hand-painted signs with an artist's precision, to an electrician. Following in his father's footsteps, Des began his career working for Scott Fabrications in the old winding house on the Firbeck grounds right after leaving school.

The headgear monument stands as a testament to Des's skill and dedication. We have some cherished photos of Des standing proudly next to the monument during its fabrication, capturing the pride he felt in his work. The monument now serves as a lasting tribute to the miners and craftsmen like Des and his father, who dedicated their lives to the industry.

Recently, Des's mother visited the site to see the completed monument. Her visit was poignant and filled with pride, knowing her son's work will be remembered for generations to come.

Glenn, Des's brother, shared a touching recollection: "Our dad worked at Firbeck from leaving school until it closed in 1968, first as a painter and then as an electrician. Des worked in the grounds of Firbeck for Scott Fabrications, their workshop being the old winding house."

The headgear monument is more than just a piece of history; it is a symbol of the hard work, dedication, and community spirit that defined Des's life and career. We are proud to share these images of the monument and Des's legacy with you.

We honour Des's memory by continuing to uphold the high standards of craftsmanship and dedication he exemplified every day. His legacy lives on in the work we do and in the monuments that stand testament to his contributions.

Please join us in celebrating Des's life and work by visiting the monument at Firbeck Colliery Memorial Gardens in Langold. Let it serve as a reminder of the incredible people who built our industry and the communities that support it.

 In Memory of Desmond Graham Cutts

31st May 1959 - 11th February 2023

 "Who helped with the creation and construction of this pit head, remembered with affection.”