Appeal For Information On Working Conditions At Shipley And Bradford Firms

The family of a grandfather-of-six from Bradford who died from asbestos-related cancer are appealing for information from his former workmates to help them gain answers regarding his death.

Former welder Brian Enoch Hodgson died following a diagnosis of mesothelioma. The cancer of the lining of the lung is commonly linked to asbestos exposure, often decades previously.

Following his diagnosis, Brian instructed asbestos-related disease experts at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and whether it was linked to his work history.

In the weeks before his death, Brian revealed that he probably encountered the material when working at:

• W P Butterfield (Engineers) Ltd – also known as Butterfields – in Shipley in 1965/66
• Tanks & Drums Ltd in Bradford in 1968/69
• Emmet Fabrications in Shipley from 1974 to 1979

While Brian has sadly since passed away, his family are continuing the search for answers in his memory. Now, they have teamed up with Irwin Mitchell to appeal for information regarding the working conditions Brian would have faced at these three companies.

Expert Opinion

“A story like Brian’s is all too common in our line of work and it reflects the terrible impact that asbestos exposure has had on many lives.

While nothing will change what has happened, we’re determined to help his family get the answers they deserve regarding his illness. Brian strongly believed exposure took place at these companies, but we would be grateful for more information to support this.

As such, any details about the conditions at the companies or the nature of Brian’s work would be hugely appreciated.”
Oliver Collett - Partner

Father-of-five Brian was diagnosed with mesothelioma in July 2020.  He died in August 2020 aged 80.

Before he died, Brian detailed how he often worked in old factories that had pipework lagged with asbestos. His role involved repairing and maintaining the pipes, so he would need to remove lagging. He also had to sweep up dust and debris when finished.

Brian added that lagging would be disturbed when he installed metal fabrications in industrial settings, while he also remembered wearing asbestos gloves for heat protection.

His wife Brenda, 76, said: “It was devastating losing Brian and everything happened so quickly. We got the diagnosis and then within weeks he was gone. We all miss him so much, but we also want answers as to how this happened.

“Brian loved his work so it is heart-breaking to think that it might have played a role in his death. We would be hugely grateful if anyone with information about these companies could come forward. In addition, it would be helpful to hear from anyone who worked directly with Brian.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Oliver Collett at Irwin Mitchell on 0113 3946784 or email Oliver.Collett@IrwinMitchell.com.

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