Specialist Lawyers Investigate Essex Dad’s Death From Mesothelioma

The son of a former glazier from Clacton-On-Sea is appealing to his dad’s former colleagues for help following his death from asbestos-related cancer.

Maurice Hughes, who was employed by Modern Art Glass, died from mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lung associated with exposure to asbestos, aged 79.

While based at Modern Art Glass’ offices in Thamesmead, South-East London, Maurice was sent to work in various London-based hospitals and hotels.

Maurice's family asks lawyers to investigate asbestos exposure

Following his death, Maurice’s son Karl Hughes, 55, instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how his dad came into contact with the hazardous material and whether more could have been done to protect him.

Karl and his legal team are now appealing to anyone who worked with Maurice at Modern Art Glass during the 1970s to come forward with information about the working conditions he may have faced.

Rebecca Buxton is the specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Karl.

Expert Opinion

“Maurice’s family remain devastated by his death and continue to have questions about how he was exposed to asbestos. While nothing can bring Maurice back, we’re determined to support Karl in his search for answers.

"While many people associate asbestos with heavy industry, its use was widespread across various public buildings.

“We’re now appealing to anyone who worked with Maurice at Modern Art Glass, particularly those who remember working in hospitals or civic buildings, to come forward with any information. Any detail, no matter how small, could help.” Rebecca Buxton

Mesothelioma: Maurice Hughes' story

Originally from Leyton, Maurice worked for Modern Art Glass between 1970 and 1976. His role involved installing sheets and panels, suspected to have contained asbestos backing, which released fibres into the air during handling and installation. The company has since been dissolved and no longer operates. 

Maurice began experiencing symptoms including breathlessness and initially believed he had a chest infection.

He was later diagnosed with mesothelioma following an X-ray and biopsy. He underwent six cycles of chemotherapy between November 2019 and March 2020, but sadly died on 28 July, 2022.

Maurice was a loving dad to Karl and Leigh husband to Kathy Hughes, who has also passed away. He enjoyed spending time with friends, fishing, and working on his allotment.

Karl's pays tribute to Maurice and appeals to dad's ex-workmates for information

Karl said: “Dad was a hardworking man who enjoyed the simple things in life. When he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, it came as a huge shock to us all and we struggled to accept what it meant for dad.

“Having to watch him deteriorate before losing him to this horrible disease has been incredibly difficult and I’m still trying to come to terms with it, especially as we also lost mum within such a short time frame.  

“What makes the grief and pain even worse is the fact that dad’s work could be to blame for what happened to him.  He was the best dad and I miss him every single day.

“I’d be grateful to anyone who remembers working with dad and can shed light on the conditions he faced. It would mean a lot to our family.”

How you can help

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rebecca Buxton at Irwin Mitchell on 0117 926 1552 or email rebecca.buxton@irwinmitchell.com

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