Rescuers hope to reach trapped Chilean miners within 24 hours

RESCUERS hope to reach the 33 miners trapped underground in Chile within 24 hours, the mining minister says.

Laurence Golborne said drilling equipment was being changed in preparation for the final push, but it is understood the rescue operation will not begin until Tuesday.

Engineers said the shaft was now just 112ft from the chamber. An elite group of rescuers was preparing last night to join the 33 trapped Chilean miners to help them return to safety.