Compensation for Widow of Man for Mesothelioma Caused by Asbestos at Work

Six figure compensation for mesothelioma victim's wife

The widow of a Newcastle man, who died of an asbestos-related disease, has received a six-figure sum in compensation.

John Clinch died in March 2006 after being diagnosed with Mesothelioma, a terminal cancer of the lining of the lung caused by exposure to asbestos.

Mr Clinch first developed symptoms of chest pain in January 2005. He was admitted to hospital in July 2005 where the diagnosis was made after investigations.

Mr Clinch  worked for Norcross Distribution Limited (previously Wares & Bartletts) as a warehouseman at their premises in Sandyford, Newcastle upon Tyne. He was exposed to substantial quantities of asbestos dust as his employers stored and sold Asbestolux boards and asbestos roofing sheets and he handled the asbestos boards/sheets on a daily basis.

Due to the brittle nature of the asbestos boards/sheets the corners or edges often became damaged, giving off dust. After the boards/sheets had been unloaded from delivery lorries, Mr Clinch was required to unwrap them and stack the same on racks. Any that were badly damaged were thrown onto skips.

Asbestos dust accumulated on floors and internal surfaces and Mr Clinch’s clothes were often covered in asbestos dust and he took these home to be washed.

After Mr. Clinch tragically died, his claim was continued against his former employers on his behalf of his widow, Pamela, by Lucy Proctor of Irwin Mitchell’s specialist Asbestos Related Disease Team in Newcastle who achieved the settlement.

If a loved one has suffered mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos at work, we can help. You can get a free case assessment and invaluable advice from our experts by completing our online claims form here.