Wife Asks Lawyers To Investigate After Husband Dies Of Mesothelioma

A widow has instructed lawyers to investigate how her husband was exposed to the asbestos that claimed his life. 

Ed Smith, a former Liverpool Docks and Merseyside bus driver, died just two weeks after he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a terminal form of cancer usually of the lining of the lung linked to asbestos exposure, usually decades previously.  

Ed's wife asks lawyers to investigate husband's asbestos exposure

Following the 79-year-old’s death, his wife of 58 years, June, instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and whether it could be linked to his work history.

As part of their investigations, June and her legal team are now seeking information from those who worked with Ed during his time at Liverpool Docks and Merseyside Passenger Transport Executive. 

Ian Toft is the expert asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing June.

Expert Opinion

“Mesothelioma is a devastating illness with Ed’s death another reminder of the dreadful legacy asbestos has created.

“Understandably June and the rest of Ed’s family remain devastated by his death and have a number of questions.

“We’re now investigating how he came into contact with asbestos and would be grateful to hear from Ed’s former colleagues or anyone who was employed at these workplaces.

“Nothing can make up for her loss, but we’re determined to provide June with the answers she deserves.” Ian Toft

Mesothelioma: Ed Smith's story

Ed joined Liverpool Promotions Ltd in 1964, based at Liverpool Docks, as a head shipping clerk. His role involved boarding cargo ships to deliver or collect bills. His family suspects he may have been exposed to asbestos while on board these vessels.

Ed spent around six years working for the company.

In 1971 he joined Merseyside Passenger Transport Executive as a bus driver.  Ed was based at two depots in Liverpool called Gillmoss depot and Walton depot, until 1987. 

Ed said that the linings of brakes and clutches, which he believed contained asbestos, would often be changed, creating dust.  

After leaving Liverpool Ed and June, with their children Jamie and Philip, moved to Kendal in the Lake District. They have two grandchildren Ruby and Douglas. 

Ed developed symptoms in December 2023, including shortness of breath and a cough which impacted his voice. He rapidly deteriorated and lost his appetite and a lot of weight.  He was diagnosed with mesothelioma on the 12 February 2024. Sadly, Ed died two weeks later. 

June seeks information about Liverpool workplaces as she pays tribute to kind husband 

June, aged 74, said: “Ed was a gentleman with a great sense of humour and an infectious laugh. 

“He was a kind, happy man who made the best of every day. He loved travelling, especially road trips across America with the radio on and a picnic packed. In later years, we explored countries like Borneo, China, Australia, Russia and India, and cruising became a favourite of ours. 

“We moved to the Lake District because we both loved the countryside and walking.

“While Ed faced many health challenges over the years, including stomach ulcers and prostate cancer, he fought them all without complaint. However, his mesothelioma made him very ill, and it was horrible to see the loving husband I knew become a shadow of himself.

“He couldn’t breathe, eat or carry out daily tasks. It was heartbreaking to watch, but he still didn’t complain much.

“I’m devastated by his death and life will never be the same without Ed. One of the hardest things to accept is that we never got to say goodbye properly to Ed given how quickly his condition deteriorated.  I know I can’t change what’s happened but the least I deserve is answers about how Ed was exposed to asbestos.

“If any of his former workmates could come forward it mean so much to me and hopefully will help honour Ed’s memory.”

How you can help

Anyone with information about the working conditions Ed faced is asked to contact Beth Liddle at Irwin Mitchell on 0191 434 2047 or email beth.liddle@irwinmitchell.com

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by asbestos exposure at our dedicated asbestos-related disease claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.