UP TO £16 million has been paid out in compensation to former miners in Leigh suffering from respiratory diseases and hand arm vibration syndrome.

The payouts represent the biggest personal injury scheme in British legal history - with over £2.4billion already been paid out to former miners nationally.

Many miners suffered from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) such as Bronchitis, Emphysema and Asthma as well as Vibration White Finger and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which collectively are known as Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Leigh MP Andy Burnham has campaigned tirelessly over the last few years to ensure that Leigh's miners and their families received their compensation.

Mr Burnham said: "The contribution to the country came at a severe cost to the health of many miners who suffered with respiratory and other health problems. I am pleased to hear that over £16 million has now been paid to former miners in Leigh.

"I welcome the fact that over 13,000 miners and their families have made a claim for compensation. But local miners and their families are angry that the previous Tory government went to court to stop these claims being agreed.

"I am proud that it has taken a Labour Government to make sure that miners and their families received justice."

Mr Burnham said he would continue to fight tooth and nail to ensure that all miners and their families in the Leigh entitled to compensation receive payouts.

He said: "I welcome the announcement by the minister for Coal Health claims, Nigel Griffiths MP that all remaining claims are being dealt with as quickly as possible."