A MEETING has been called for miners seeking compensation from the Government.

The meeting is open to former miners and their families or solicitors and will be held at the Upper Morris Street Working Men's Club in School Street, Scholes, Wigan, on Thursday from 1pm.

The news follows claims by Energy minister Brian Wilson that 50,000 compensation offers will be made to miners this year -- including former coalworkers from this area -- on health grounds.

Billy Kelly, Lancashire area general secretary, said: "This meeting is an important part of our ongoing campaign to highlight the struggle of our members to obtain fair and speedy settlements for claims which, in many cases, have dragged on for years."

For details contact the National Union of Mineworkers on 01942 262218.