LAWYERS representing former coke oven workers suffering from respiratory illnesses have won the latest step in their legal fight for compensation.

The High Court has approved a Group Litigation Order on behalf of 325 former British Steel workers who went on to develop life-limiting and debilitating respiratory diseases.

Law firms Hugh James and Irwin Mitchell are representing former workers, including former workers at the Lambton coke works, near Chester-le-Street, and the Derwenthaugh coke works, at Swalwell, in Gateshead.

They claim workers were exposed to harmful fumes at coke oven plants dating back to 1947 up to the point at which appropriate respiratory protection was provided.

Lawyers are now awaiting confirmation of a hearing date.

Roger Maddocks, partner at Irwin Mitchell, said: “The approval by the High Court, and the admission of liability, are extremely important milestones and move the victims and their families a further step closer to securing the justice they deserve.”