Information Sought On Fenners Of Hull Where Woman Operated Weaving Machine

The daughter of a Hull woman who died from asbestos-related cancer is appealing to her mum’s former workmates for information to help establish how he fell ill.

Jean Dobson was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs associated with exposure to asbestos, often decades previously.

Following Jean’s death in September last year aged 87, her daughter, Susan Giles, instructed asbestos-related disease experts at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether her mother’s illness could be linked to her work history.

Ahead of this year’s Action Mesothelioma Day on 1 July, she has joined with Jean’s legal team in appealing for any of her former workmates to come forward with information that could aid the investigation.  They are keen to trace anyone who worked with Jean at Fenners of Hull.

Expert Opinion

“Jean’s loved ones, in particular Susan, are understandably devastated at losing her so suddenly and to such a horrible disease.

It also left them with a lot of unanswered questions as to how Jean came into contact with asbestos.

Through our work, we come across many families affected by mesothelioma, and we would be grateful if any of Jean’s former colleagues could contact us with any information that could help with our investigation. Any detail, no matter how small, could prove vital in helping Susan and the rest of Jean’s family obtain the answers they deserve.”
Lucy Andrews - Associate Solicitor

Jean worked for Fenners of Hull between 1952 and 1954, where she operated a weaving machine making fan belts.

Prior to her death, she told Susan that to the best of her recollection the fan belts made there were for industrial use and hoses for the fire brigade, which she understood contained asbestos, were also made in the factory.

Jean first developed symptoms of mesothelioma, including a cough, pain, breathlessness and weight loss, around the end of 2020 and early 2021.

She was diagnosed with the condition in August 2021.  She died the following month, on 9 September.

Jean enjoyed knitting, cross stitching and cooking.  She also spent time in her garden and loved being outdoors.

Susan said: “Mum had undergone some tests early last year but she wasn’t officially diagnosed until August. By that time, she had deteriorated a lot and we lost her very soon afterwards which completely devastated me.

“She was the best mum and I still can’t believe she’s not here anymore.

“While she was still with us, we began going through her work history after we were told that asbestos may be a cause, but sadly by this time she was not well enough to have long and detailed conversations.

“She did believe it was likely, however, that she her exposure had occurred during her time at Fenners, and I would really appreciate it if anyone could provide us with details on the conditions she may have faced there.

“Getting these answers is the least my mum deserves.”

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

Held every year, Action Mesothelioma Day brings together victims of the disease, those who have loved ones affected, healthcare professionals, support groups and those working to understand mesothelioma and find a cure. The day aims to ensure the public are also aware of the terrible impact mesothelioma can have on sufferers and their carers.

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