Non-fatal Accident

George William Hodgson

Durham Miners' Association
Compensation Department

Dean and Chapter. George William Hodgson, 48, shifter.

On 3rd February, 1923, this man fell off with Miners' Nystagmus. Full compensation was paid until 7th November, 1925, when it was reduced to 5/- per week on a report of Dr. Wardale (the Owners' doctor) who reported on 23rd October, 1925, as follows :—

"Present Condition. — I could get no movements of eyeballs in this man to-day, but he had a spasm of the left eyelids (the right are fixed because of an accident a long time ago) and when the spasm is present this right eye can be very distinctly seen and there is absolutely no movement of the eye.

The spasm is not enough to prevent him from working, and I think he is able to work on bank now."

Dr. Boyd Cunningham (the man's own doctor) on 31st October, 1925, reported as follows :—

"Examination. — Hodgson is suffering from Miners' Nystagmus. The oscillation of the eyes can be observed when he looks upwards and outwards. On stooping the signs are more marked. The oscillations increase and the twitching of the lids can be seen. Giddiness is present.

From the result of my examination I am of opinion that Hodgson is incapacitated from working underground ; he is also unfit to perform the full work of a labourer. He is only fit for suitable light work at bank in daylight where there is little stooping to be done. His incapacity is due to Miners' Nystagmus."

No suitable light work has been offered and Hodgson now claims full compensation.

The Committee failed to agree.

Source: NEEMARC - Ref: NUMDA/6/1/1/6, Reports of the Compensation Department, Vol VI covering Jan-Dec 1926

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