`` Blackleg Miner '' is an obscure song that dates back from a strike that took place in 1843 .
With no `` relaunch '' as such , the band retained a low profile , although their recording of `` Blackleg Miner '' , previously an obscure song from the 19th century , became a political anthem for the NUM during the miners ' strike of 1984-5 and was used to intimidate working miners .
Steeleye Span