FORMER miners who want to claim compensation for illnesses related to coal dust exposure have been urged to visit a health screening clinic before it is too late.

An estimated 5,000 men from Bolton, Bury, Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton could be eligible for damages.

And lawyers representing the GMB union have issued a reminder to ex-miners to undergo a specialist health screening session before the December deadline.

Solicitors from the Manchester based Whittles law firm have just announced that damages payouts will range from £5,000 to £12,000 for pain and suffering.

The health screening programme was announced following a legal ruling which meant that British Coal was held responsible for its employees and ex-employees who have suffered chest conditions as a result of exposure to coal dust.

Thousands of men worked in Bickershaw and Parsonage Collieries and since then many have complained of a variety of chest problems.

The nearest specialist health screening centre is in Manchester.

More information is available on 01908 691919.

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