14.01.2015

Specialist Industrial Disease Lawyers Investigating Exposure to Asbestos

A retired mechanic is appealing to his former workmates for help in his asbestos investigation after he was diagnosed with mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lung caused by exposure to asbestos dust and fibres.

Robert Burns, aged 76 from Walton-le-Dale, Preston was ‘completely shocked’ when he was diagnosed with the condition in August 2014.

Mr Burns believes that he was exposed to asbestos during his time working as a mechanic for St Helens Metropolitan Borough Council at the Hardshaw Brook Garage during the 1970’s and between 1990-2003. 

Mr Burns, backed by his legal team at Irwin Mitchell, is now appealing for his former workmates to come forward with information about the working conditions at the Hardshaw Brook Garage and his exposure to asbestos.

Katrina London, a specialist industrial disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell’s Manchester office representing Mr Burns, said:

Expert Opinion

Mesothelioma is a serious and debilitating lung disease caused by exposure to asbestos. It causes significant pain and suffering to victims and sadly there is no known cure.

"We urge anyone who worked with Robert, or at the Hardshaw Brook Garage during the 1970’s or between 1990-2003 to come forward as you may be able to help with investigations and help Robert achieve the justice he deserves.

“In Robert’s case, the disease has made a significant impact on his life. He now relies on his grandson to look after him and they need to move to single storey accommodation at considerable expense." Katrina London - Senior Associate Solicitor

Robert, a father-of-four, said: “I have always been healthy and independent, but since my diagnosis I have come to rely on my grandson Wesley and I’m unable to do a lot of the things I used to. My health has deteriorated so much that we are looking to rent a bungalow, so I do not have to tackle the stairs any longer, as the effort leaves me out of breath.

“I was completely shocked to be diagnosed with mesothelioma earlier this year and angry to find out the disease has been caused by my exposure to asbestos during my working life.

“I feel very concerned about the future and worry that I will not be able to do all the things I wanted to do with my family. I hope that my former workmates at St Helen’s Metropolitan Borough Council will come forward with the information my legal team at Irwin Mitchell needs.”

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help is asked to contact Katrina London at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors on 0161 838 7262 or email Katrina.London@irwinmitchell.com.