Information Sought On Working Conditions With Various Plastering Companies

The widow of a former plasterer from Leeds is appealing for information following her husband’s death from asbestos-related cancer.

Dave Smith was told he had lung cancer in July last year.  He died three weeks later aged 77.

A post mortem examination report confirmed a diagnosis of mesothelioma - a cancer of the lining of the lung often as a result of asbestos exposure.

A subsequent inquest concluded Dave died from industrial disease.

Following Dave’s death, his widow Doreen instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and if it was linked to his job history.

To mark Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Doreen has now joined with her legal team in appealing to Dave’s former workmates to come forward with information on the working conditions her husband faced.

In particular, they are seeking details on his employment with Philips Plasterers Limited, Renno (Plasterers) Limited, Leest Plasterers, Tersons and L Geldard Plasterers.

Lucy Andrews, the specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Doreen, said: “Dave’s death continues to have a profound effect on Doreen, who is understandably still devastated after losing her husband so quickly after he fell ill.

“Her grief is made all the more worse as she has so many questions regarding his death, and while nothing will make up for her loss, we’re determined to provide her with the answers she deserves.

“This case is also yet another stark reminder of the terrible legacy left behind by asbestos and we are keen to hear from anyone that has information on how Dave could have been exposed.  Any detail, no matter how small, could prove vital in our investigation.”

Dave was employed throughout his life as a plasterer at various industrial premises and for a number of companies.  He worked in old houses, factories and schools, pulling old ceilings down and replastering them.

In August 2018, Dave suffered a collapsed lung and developed breathing difficulties.  He was put on pain management.

On 1 July 2020, he was given six weeks to live.  He died on 26 July.

At the time of his death, Dave and Doreen had been married for 56 years.

Doreen said: “It’s only been just over a year since I lost Dave and it’s all still very raw for me.

“Prior to falling ill, Dave was a generally fit and healthy man, so it was a huge shock when he was diagnosed.  To then be told that he only had six weeks to live completely floored us.  We were absolutely devastated. What made it so much worse is that he only survived half of that.

“I had heard of mesothelioma during my career as a nurse but I never expected Dave to develop it.  And to think his work could be to blame is awful.

“Dave was a wonderful husband and didn’t deserve to be taken from us so suddenly. I would give anything to change what happened and bring him back to me, but I know that’s not possible.  All I can do now is get some answers regarding his illness and how he could have been exposed to asbestos.

“I would therefore be very grateful if anyone who remembers working with Dave could come forward and help with the investigation.”

Anyone with information that may assist with this case is asked to contact Lucy Andrews at Irwin Mitchell on 07885 261317 or lucy.andrews@irwinmitchell.com

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is held throughout November to raise awareness of the signs to look out for and support those affected by the disease.  Find out more on the campaign

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