Appeal For Information After Construction Firm Worker Diagnosed With Mesothelioma

A former apprentice joiner has asked lawyers to investigate whether his time working for a construction firm more than 60 years ago contributed to his asbestos-related cancer.

Peter Parkinson, from Nottingham, has been diagnosed with mesothelioma – a terminal form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, most commonly associated with exposure to asbestos.

Peter asks lawyers to investigate asbestos exposure

Following his diagnosis, the 81-year-old instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether his illness could be linked to his work history. 

Peter and his legal team are now appealing to his ex-workmates for information. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who worked with Peter when he was employed by John Laing Construction Ltd between 1959 and 1966. Peter joined the firm as a teenage school leaver. 

The construction sites Peter worked on 

During his time employed by John Laing he worked on several projects including the construction of buildings at the University of Nottingham between 1959 and 1963, a Boots warehouse and Coventry Cathedral.  

Nicola Handley is the specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Peter.

Expert Opinion

“Peter’s diagnosis is yet another reminder of the devastating impact of asbestos and how the consequences of exposure are often only known years later.

“Peter and his family remain devastated by his diagnosis and what it may mean for the future. While many people associate asbestos with heavy industry, its use was widespread across construction sites and public buildings.

“Even though Peter’s work took place in the early 1960’s the risks of asbestos were still well-known and employers had a duty to ensure the safety of their employees.

“If anyone who remembers working with Peter, or who has information about the various construction sites he worked at, could come forward, it could prove vital in at least providing Peter and his family with the answers they deserve.” Nicola Handley

Mesothelioma: Peter Parkinson's story

Peter, who was also known as Ginge and Tiger, grew up in Hyson Green, Nottingham, joined John Laing as apprentice joiner.

He recalled spending up to four days a week on the site at Nottingham University when it was being constructed and he also worked at several other sites afterwards. He recalled cutting asbestos flue pipes and sheeting as well undertaking other joinery duties. 

The work generated clouds of dust that settled on his clothes, hair, and workbench, he said.

Peter was also responsible for sweeping up at the end of each shift. He remembered brushing dust from his clothes and hair, and from the work surfaces around him.

Peter, left John Laing in 1966 to and joined the Ministry of Defence because he always wanted to be in The Army. He reached the rank of Warrant Officer and travelled the world before settling in Scarborough in the 1980’s.  

Peter began experiencing symptoms including breathlessness, fatigue, and night sweats, in November 2024. Following tests he was diagnosed with mesothelioma in January 2025. He is currently receiving treatment. 

Peter, was married to his beloved wife Madge for more than 40 years until her death in 2019 and is now supported by his daughter Tracey and granddaughter Laura.

Peter reveals impact of mesothelioma as he asks ex-workmates for information

He said: “I’ve always tried to be as active as possible and also enjoyed pottering around my home and garden. I also attended veterans’ breakfasts and social events regularly. 

“Since my diagnosis, everything has changed. I get breathless easily and can’t do the things I used to enjoy. I’ve been left thinking about my career and I remembered my time at John Laing and how asbestos was used more regularly back then and the amount of dust that was created by the activities that we frequently undertook. 

“My diagnosis has been incredibly difficult, not just for me but for my family too. I’ve lost a lot of my independence and am more reliant on Tracey and Laura. They’ve been amazing and nothing is too much trouble for them.

“I know I can’t turn the clock back but I just want to understand what caused my illness.”

How you can help

Anyone with information about the conditions Peter would have faced while working at John Laing Construction Ltd is asked to contact Nicola Handley at Irwin Mitchell on 0113 220 6233 or email nicola.handley@irwinmitchell.com

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