THE sons of a miner are rejecting a posthumous compensation payout because they feel it is an insult to their father's lengthy career.

Thomas Waite worked in the Durham coalfield for nearly 35 years as a face worker and pump attendant.

He suffered from chronic bronchitis as a result of his work and died of cancer in 1968.

His sons David and William Waite, of Houghton-le-Spring, put in a posthumous claim when the Government announced money was being made available to former miners and their families.

But the payouts only apply for the years their father worked after 1954 and, as he retired in 1962, the brothers have been made an offer of only £461.

David Waite said: "It is wrong that they have a cut-off date because it doesn't recognise the length of service. It is not fair.

"My dad suffered terribly and gave many years to the mining industry. This is an insult to his work. It is disgraceful."

The brothers have posted the offer back to their solicitor with a note explaining they are rejecting it.

A spokesman for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said: "The purpose of the compensation does not reflect the years of service but the injury and the liability of British Coal.

"The cut-off date was the result of a High Court judgement and, sadly, there will be people who will not be eligible for the scheme. However, he can dispute the amount if he thinks it has been miscalculated."