I WORKED in the coal industry for 35 years at Thrislington, Mainsforth, Blackhall and Easington collieries.

In my time as a union official, I attended day school to learn more about compensation for injured coal miners.

My success rate in winning compensation for injured coal miners was good. I think this was because I understood the hazards of the coal industry.

Last week a woman sarcastically said to me: “What have you done for the working class? Nothing.”

This hurt because I put my heart and soul into helping injured coal miners and ex-coal miners.

Words cannot express my feelings. Have I being wasting my time helping miners and ex-miners?

Well it takes all kinds to make a world and I put her remark down to ignorance.

Jimmy Taylor, Coxhoe.