A NORTH-EAST MP has called for the Bevin Boys to come forward and claim their veterans' badges.

Durham North MP Kevan Jones launched a campaign for the men who were conscripted to coal mines rather than the armed services during the Second World War to receive recognition.

The Bevin Boys scheme was introduced in 1943 by then Minister for Labour and National Service, Ernest Bevin and more than 48,000 men were selected or volunteered.

Tony Blair announced in June the campaign to honour them had been successful - and Mr Jones has now urged veterans to come forward and apply for their badge.

Mr Jones said he became involved after people in his constituency raised the issue.

During the war, some members of the armed forces thought, mistakenly, that Bevin Boys had volunteered to work in the mines to avoid combat. In fact, their names were drawn randomly.

Mr Jones said the lack of recognition was an injustice.

"A number of people in my constituency raised it," he said. "Their contemporaries who served receive veterans' badges, but there is nothing to recognise the service of those who worked in the mines. It was an injustice. People tend to forget the Bevin Boys were picked at random like everyone else."

His comments coincide with those made by Malcolm Wicks MP, Minister for Energy, who has also urged the Bevin Boys to come forward.

Mr Wicks said the badge was a recognition of their tremendous work. "These heroes in our community helped to keep the coal fields running during the war and in post-war reconstruction of Britain," he said.

"It is important we never forget the sacrifices that were made at home and abroad during the war.

"If you are a Bevin Boy, or you know someone who is, please come forward to claim this fitting tribute."

Applications will be accepted from widows of Bevin Boys, who died on or after June 20 this year, provided a copy of the marriage and death certificate are attached. To apply, call 0800-169-2277 or visit www.veterans-uk.info