When coal is burnt to generate electricity or heat homes then no, we have better alternatives.

When it is being used within heritage railways which provider pleasure for so many - see some of the comments on this thread - I feel an exception should be made.

Much coal is still burnt within industrial processes in the UK, cement producers for example. Because this is much less visible and because they are powerful multi-national companies they do not appear to face the same level of scrutiny.

I understand attitudes of younger generations to me. The tide is turning. People will no longer tolerate "polluting for pleasure" and the days of steam railways are numbered. Grab a trip or sight of Tornado whilst you still can!