Mr Winstanley, who was operating machinery supporting the roof at the time, described the situation as "horrendous" and said they eventually managed to uncover Mr Gibson's face and head but there were no signs of life.

BBC: Gerry Gibson pit death inquest: Miners' rescue attempts

Hitachi Construction Machinery jumped 4.1% after the Nikkei business daily reported the company's consolidated operating profit for the fiscal year is expected to be up 40%.

WSJ: Wall Street Strength Lifts Asia Markets