Information Sought On Yorkshire Imperial Metals Ltd

The devastated family of a Leeds man who died from asbestos-related cancer have launched an emotional appeal for his former workmates to come forward and help them gain answers regarding his illness.

The loved ones of Reginald Spence, from Rothwell, instructed asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell after he passed away from mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lung linked to contact with asbestos materials.

Now, following their initial investigations into his work history, the legal experts are keen to gather more information on the conditions that the father-of-three would have faced when employed by Yorkshire Imperial Metals Ltd, formerly known as Yorkshire Copper Works, in Leeds between 1964 and 1978.

As a result, Reginald’s family and the lawyers are calling for anyone who worked alongside him or at the company around the same time to come forward with details.

Expert Opinion

“Reginald’s family are understandably devastated by their loss and continue to hold many questions around how his illness emerged.

After our preliminary work, we are keen to get a proper understanding of the conditions at Yorkshire Imperial Metals Ltd and would be grateful if anyone who worked there could come forward.

This is another awful example of the terrible consequences of asbestos exposure and we are determined to help Reginald’s family obtain answers.”
Lucy Andrews - Associate Solicitor

Reginald saw his GP in July 2020 after he suffered with pain all over his torso. His condition worsened and he was admitted to hospital at the start of August. There, it was confirmed he had mesothelioma. At his request, Reginald was allowed home.  He died on 24 August 2020, aged 79.

His wife Blanche said: “Reginald worked at Yorkshire Copper Works for a number of years and I can’t recall him ever being told to wear protective clothing. I remember that his cousin’s husband also worked with the same company and he died of mesothelioma too.

“It was awful to see how the illness affected him and everything happened so fast. The entire family misses him so much and we just want to know how this illness developed. Information on this company could make all the difference, so we would be grateful if people could get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lucy Andrews at Irwin Mitchell on 0113 394 6782 or by email lucy.andrews@irwinmitchell.com.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling asbestos-related disease cases

Find out more information about mesothelioma and its impact