The miner whose plight sparked a major campaign in the South Wales Argus has finally received his compensation pay-out from the Government.

Robert James was one of hundreds of miners who now suffer ill-health due to their time underground.

But red tape and delays in payments meant many of his former pit colleagues were dying before getting their cash. Even payments to their widows were held up.

Mr James, (73), said his five-figure compensation cheque was due to the campaigning of the Argus.

He said: “It’s because of the Argus helping me that I got my money. Things moved for me in the end but it certainly took a lot of pushing from you.”

Mr James said his fight was always for justice rather than the money, and the sum will go to make sure his children are comfortable – as he says he is too ill to enjoy it now.

And thousands more are still awaiting their claim while suffering with lung disease.

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