Industrial Illness Specialists At Law Firm Irwin Mitchell Working With Family in Battle for Justice

A former Bradford carpet factory which has been linked to dozens of asbestos-related deaths is under the spot light again after a Coroner’s inquest recorded another death last year from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma.

Associated Weavers, later known as Carpets International, based on Toftshaw Lane in Bradford, was previously investigated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following calls from the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) who set up an action group after a number of former employees developed asbestos-related diseases.

Michael Bannister, 71, from Bradford, died in April 2013 after he was diagnosed with the terminal cancer, mesothelioma, which he bravely battled for over two years.

His brother John Bannister has now instructed asbestos-related disease experts at law firm Irwin Mitchell to investigate how   and when his brother was exposed to asbestos so he can gain justice on his behalf.

Legal Industrial illness experts Irwin Mitchell are now appealing for Michael’s former Associated Weavers’ colleagues to come forward to help piece together his working conditions and establish how he was exposed to the deadly asbestos dust.

Michael began work at Associated Weavers in Bradford in the 1960s and then again between 1973 and 1981 where it is believed he worked as a labourer in the dye house and also in the warehouse.

Expert Opinion

Over the years there has been a high number of deaths relating to this company. I investigated deaths of workers at the company more than 10 years ago, but years on I am shocked to find deaths still happening from the factory, I am very keen to speak to anybody who worked with Michael during his career at Associated Weavers as we believe they may hold vital evidence about the presence of asbestos and the working conditions he faced.

“Mesothelioma is an industrial illness for which there is sadly no cure. Employers have been aware of the dangers of exposing workers to asbestos dust since the 1950s and 60s and this case highlights the devastating consequences the disease can have.

“The cancer takes decades from exposure to the deadly dust before the symptoms develop but when they do the diseases takes hold very aggressively.”
Ian Bailey - Partner

John said: “It was difficult to watch Michael battle this disease and for his health to decline as it did. All he did was go to work and do his job. As his illness progressed, he had to move into the Marie Curie hospice to be cared for as he needed round the clock care.

“I urge anyone who worked with or knew Michael to come forward with any information so we can move his case forward and receive justice. We want to know how and where he was exposed to deadly asbestos dust and why more wasn’t done to protect him whilst at work.”

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help is asked to contact Ian Bailey at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors on 0113 220 6235 or email ian.bailey@irwinmitchell.com

If you or a loved one has been affected by an asbestos related illness, our solicitors can help you to claim compensation. See our Asbestos Claims page for more information.