NEARLY £11 million in compensation was paid out to former miners and their families in Leigh last year, new figures have revealed.

Trade and Industry minister Patrica Hewitt told the House of Commons her department had received 4,480 claims from people who had contracted conditions such as Vibration White Finger, Carpet Tunnel Syndrome and chest disease while working underground.

She confirmed that 1,396 of these cases had been settled.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham welcomed speedier pay-outs and called on anyone who believes they are entitled to compensation, but has yet to make a claim, to come forward.

Mr Burnham also backed a Common's motion commemorating the 20th anniversary of the miners' strike of 1984/85.

He said: "People will have different memories of the strike but it had a huge impact on our communities and it is vital that we remember what people and their families went through."

He said: "I also urge all Leigh families to think carefully now whether they have a valid claim for a living or deceased relative and, if so, to act within days not weeks."