A GREAT many issues around the coal industry still need to be tackled, MSP Alex Rowley told a meeting in Kelty.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Alex Rowley was guest speaker at a meeting of retired miners from Kelty and the Lothians who met up in Kelty Ex-servicemen's Club to discuss issues of interest for retired miners.

The packed meeting heard that it was vital that the need for jobs and skills opportunities in former mining communities like the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area was highly important.

Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Mr Rowley, said he was honoured to be attending the gathering which also had a social element to it.

He said; "Although the pits are gone there are still many outstanding issues around pensions and industrial disease and the retired miners organisation is still one of the most vocal and effective pensioners organisations in the country".

Pat Rattray, of Kelty, welcomed over 70 former miners from the Lothians and pensions representative Alex Bennett talked of the ongoing work and lobbying of Parliament.

Sir David Hamilton said it was great to be in Kelty with friends and fellow former miners and pledged to continue to campaign on the issues for former miners and to make the case for jobs and skills opportunities for the former mining communities.