FORMER mineworkers from Bolton who are claiming compensation for chest diseases allegedly caused by coal dust, face a huge 30-page questionnaire to complete.

British Coal insurers IRISC, who have set the questionnaire, are returning incorrectly completed forms nationwide.

The National Union of Mineworkers, in association with their solicitors Raleys, are fighting back by offering face to face advice and assistance with the correct completion of the forms.

The union's solicitors are travelling to the homes of housebound claimants, and setting up appointments in local clubs for others in a bid to provide all eligible miners with the compensation that they deserve.

The union has also warned that failure to register a claim in time could result in the loss of many thousands of pounds that should be paid to miners and their families.

Any Bolton miners who think they may be entitled to claim should seek out the Mineworker's Union at Platt Bridge Labour Club on Tuesdays 15th, 22nd and 29th of August between 10am and 4pm.

Claims can be registered by contacting the NUM Lancashire Area Solicitors on Freephone 0800 073 67 67. Vibration White Finger claims should be registered by contacting the NUM Lancashire Area Solicitors on Freephone 0800 073 21 01.