UPDATE: Bankruptcy judge approves move for possible Blackjewel mine purchase by Contura

A US bankruptcy judge on Friday approved a bidding process that will allow Bristol-based Contura Energy to possibly purchase mine properties in Wyoming up for sale by failing Blackjewel Coal. Contura has already offered more than $20 million for the mines and the move could put hundreds of coal miners back to work. There’s no word yet if Contura plans to pursue Blackjewel’s mining operations in Kentucky and Virginia where several workers have been idle since earlier this month.

(PHOTO: AP Photo / Mead Gruver)