Specialist Lawyers Investigate Dad-Of-Two’s Death From Peritoneal Mesothelioma

The family of a former computer operator from Oldham are appealing for information to determine where he was exposed to the asbestos that claimed his life.

Andrew Sharp, from Oldham, was diagnosed in March 2024 with peritoneal mesothelioma — a rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the abdomen linked to previous asbestos exposure, often decades previously.

Following his diagnosis, the-dad-of-two instructed expert asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and the link to his work history.

Asbestos-related disease lawyers and loved ones continue dad's quest for answers

Andrew died shortly afterwards, aged 70.  His family, including his widow Susan, are now continuing his quest for answers.  They’ve now joined his legal team in appealing to Andrew’s former colleagues for information to help establish where he came into contact with asbestos.

They are keen to hear from anyone who worked for either R R Whitehead Brothers Limited at Royal George Mill in Greenfield or Initial Textile Services Limited in Ardwick, Manchester. Neither company is trading any longer.

Casey Foden is the specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Andrew’s family including Susan.

Expert Opinion

“Losing Andrew to such a horrible disease continues to have a profound effect on his loved ones, particularly Susan. His death is yet another terrible reminder of the devastating legacy asbestos has created and how a generation after its ban in the UK it still continues to tear families apart.

If anyone who remembers working with Andrew or was employed at the same firms could come forward, it would mean a lot to his family and could prove vital in providing them with the answers they deserve.” Casey Foden

Mesothelioma: Andrew Sharp's story

Andrew was employed by R R Whitehead and Brothers Limited, a large felt manufacturing company, from 1972 to 1974. He initially worked in stock control before becoming a cost clerk.

The company was based inside Royal George Mill. Andrew remembered heating pipes inside the mills which may have been lagged with asbestos.

He also believed that certain areas of the mill had corrugated asbestos roofing, which appeared old, worn, and in poor condition.

From 1980 to 1988, Andrew worked for a small data processing company, Initial Services Limited—later known as Initial Textile Services—based at an office on Ardwick Green North.

Andrew’s duties included collecting printing materials from a stationery storeroom located in the cellar, which he described as being dusty and containing lagged pipework.

At one point, Andrew was asked to assist in the partial demolition of an adjoining building in preparation for refurbishment. This involved removing ceiling tiles and knocking down false walls in a space that was poorly ventilated, windowless, and filled with dust.

Andrew married Susan in 2002. He also had two sons, Alistair and Christopher, from a previous marriage.

Andrew and Susan always loved going on holiday together and went on a few trips abroad every year prior to Andrew’s diagnosis. Andrew also loved riding his motorbikes. He was a member of many motorbike groups and often went on biking holidays across the U.K, and Europe every year.

Andrew had always enjoyed good health until he began suffering from pain, discomfort and swelling in his stomach in April 2022. He was diagnosed with advanced peritoneal mesothelioma in March 2024.

Widow pays tribute to 'best husband'

Susan, 72, said: “Andrew’s diagnosis came as a huge shock to all of us, as mesothelioma was something we’d never heard of before.  Then to have to watch him deteriorate, knowing there was nothing I could do to help, was awful.

“Before his illness, Andrew loved riding his motorbikes and we also enjoyed travelling.  Sadly, his condition progressed quickly, and it became increasingly difficult for him to do the things he loved.

“It’s horrible to think that his work may have contributed to his illness, and I know there’s nothing I can do to change that.  But I need to get him the answers he sought before his death.  It’s the least I can do to honour his memory; he was the best husband, and I miss him every single day.

“I would therefore be grateful if anyone who worked with Andrew could help with the investigation.  Any detail could prove vital.”

Rob Rayner from the Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group said: "Mesothelioma is a cancer which can be caused by very low exposures to asbestos. Until our homes, schools, and workplaces are free from asbestos, we're all at some risk. What happened to Andrew could have happened to you or me. If you know anything that might help Andrew's family now, please get in touch."

Action Mesothelioma Day is Friday 4 July, a day to raise awareness of the risks of asbestos and to remember all those who have been affected by cancer caused by asbestos.   

Get in touch

Anyone with information that could help Andrew’s family is asked to contact Casey Foden at Irwin Mitchell on 0161 259 0831 or by e-mail at casey.foden@irwinmitchell.com

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