Local Law Firm Is Sponsoring June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund Event

A free event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Leeds today will be helping to raise awareness of mesothelioma, an incurable form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

The event is being sponsored by national law firm Irwin Mitchell, alongside three other law firms, and four mesothelioma charities.

Each year victim support organisations join together to host events on Action Mesothelioma Day to raise awareness of this asbestos-related diseased which affects the lining of the lungs.

The event will take place from 10am to 4pm and it will allow mesothelioma sufferers, their families, and health and social professionals to come together and meet researchers investigating mesothelioma cures and treatments.

The day will have an informal, round-table style allowing attendees the opportunity to hear about research topics first hand and to ask questions.

Experts present on the day will include representatives from research projects currently supported by the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund (JHMRF). Since its inception in 1997, the JHMRF has supported projects that span the whole spectrum of research stages from early experiments with new compounds to a Phase 2 clinical trial comparing treatment with an anti-cancer vaccine to standard chemotherapy.

Local support groups and professionals from clinical and legal backgrounds will also be on hand to talk to people and provide information and advice.

The Fund was set up in memory of June Hancock who grew up and went to school in the Armley area of Leeds. She was diagnosed with the fatal asbestos cancer mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos dust released from the JW Roberts factory.

Dr Kate Hill, one of the Trustees of the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund said: “Our Meet the Researchers event on Action Mesothelioma Day is always very well attended and provides a unique opportunity for those affected by mesothelioma to meet face to face with expert researchers, clinicians and solicitors in an informal setting.”

“The national event also provides a great opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and the need for employers in all industries to protect workers from the risks associated with asbestos exposure.”

Expert Opinion

“More than 2,500 people are dying from mesothelioma every year in the UK due to the negligence of their employers’ decades ago. Many of the people we represent were exposed to the deadly substance and were never warned of the risks or provided with any protective equipment.

“Action Mesothelioma Day is a time to reflect on those who have lost their lives to the disease and to support those recently diagnosed. Of course, it is also a time to push for further research into the disease and possible cures by raising funds for research in relation to treatment and ensuring that clients have access to justice.” Ian Toft - Partner

Irwin Mitchell handles many cases involving mesothelioma sufferers and recently launched legal action on behalf of a former Vickers Oils employee from Leeds who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Widower Derek Wales, 71, believes he was exposed to harmful quantities of asbestos dust and fibres while employed at Benjamin R Vickers & Sons Ltd, also known as Vickers Oils. With the backing of Irwin Mitchell, Derek is appealing for former colleagues who worked with him at the firm’s base on Clarence Road, Leeds, during 1973 to 1979 to come forward with any information of the working conditions.

Anyone who worked with Derek and can provide any information is asked to contact Lucy Andrews at Irwin Mitchell on 0113 394 6782 or by email at lucy.andrews@irwinmitchell.com

Read more about the work of Irwin Mitchell's Asbestos Related Disease Team