MINERS who believe their health has suffered due to their work are being urged to claim before it's too late.

The Government has announced that the British Coal Respiratory Disease Scheme will close on March 31 next year.

Energy Minister Brian Wilson said: "It is essential that all those former miners and their families who are yet to claim contact a solicitor or their union in order to lodge their claim as soon as possible.

"I recognise the sacrifice that was made by the many thousands of men who worked in thier country's coal industry and we must ensure that this is repaid as quickly and fairly as possible."

Around 120,000 compensation payments have been made since the scheme began in 1999 after British Coal had been found negligent in relation to lung disease.

A helpline for miners seeking compensation is available on 0800 0282 138.