Former work colleagues needed for mesothelioma compensation case

The husband of a former Yate woman, who died after being exposed to asbestos, is appealing for her former work colleagues to come forward to help in his legal battle for compensation.

Diane Pritchard was 58 years old when she was diagnosed with mesothelioma, the asbestos-related cancer, in April 2005 and sadly passed away twenty six months later on 6 June 2007. She leaves behind her husband, Derrick, and one adult son, Darrell.

Mrs Pritchard is thought to have been exposed to asbestos dust and fibres whilst working as an assembly worker in the late 1960s. Mrs Pritchard, who was then known by her maiden name, Diane Abbott, worked for Jackson Electric Limited, formerly known as Parnell (Yate) Ltd, based in Station Road, Yate, from 1967 to 1969.

Her husband, Derrick Pritchard, recalls: "During her employment, Diane was involved in testing Ascott Heaters for leaks and assembling domestic cookers. It is believed that during the process she came into contact with asbestos dust and fibres. The factory premises also housed steam pipes lagged with insulation material believed to be asbestos.

"Following the diagnosis of mesothelioma in April 2005, we were both devastated. Diane’s condition continued to worsen and throughout her illness she was in a lot of pain. She passed away in June 2007 and has left behind a family that misses her deeply."

An inquest into Mrs Pritchard’s death took place before the Avon Coroner in Bourton on 13 April 2008 and a verdict of death as a result of industrial disease was recorded.

Tariq Khan, from the Birmingham offices of law firm Irwin Mitchell, represents Mrs Pritchard’s husband. He said: "Diane Pritchard’s inquest showed that she died as a result of being exposed to asbestos.

"It is vital that people who have information concerning the working practices undertaken in the 1960s at Jackson Electric, come forward to assist us with our enquiries."