The Mansfield-based Union of Democratic Mineworkers had challenged an earlier decision that claimants would miss-out because of the Miners Strike in the 1980's.

The payments relate to miners who have suffered from breathing problems like chronic bronchitis and emphysema which were caused by their working conditions.

Successful claimants who had left the industry early because of the illness would usually qualify for five years lost earnings.

Hundreds affected

But the government had previously said miners would not qualify for the period of the strike in the 1980's.

The UDM challenged that decision, saying Nottinghamshire pits had remained opened during the strike, so miners should still receive money for that period.

Union officials say the government has now agreed that payments will be made.

The decision will mean an extra �500 for around 300 miners affected.

No-one from the Department of Trade and Industry was available to comment.