Appeal For Information On Armstrong Oiler Company Ltd

A former factory worker from York who was diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer has joined forces with specialist lawyers to appeal for information to help determine how he developed the disease.

Philip Dean, 77, from Strensall, began to feel unwell and developed pain down his left-hand side in November 2018.  He started struggling with breathlessness in June last year and underwent a series of tests.

In early August, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lungs most commonly associated with exposure to asbestos.

Following the news, he instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the illness and find out whether it could be linked to his work history.

Now, the legal experts are seeking more information on the working conditions that Philip may have faced during his time working for Armstrong Oiler Company Ltd on Lendal Bridge in York between 1959 and 1973. They are appealing to anyone who recalls working with Philip, or has information on the site, to come forward and help with their efforts.

Expert Opinion

“It is only a few months since Philip was diagnosed with mesothelioma and he understandably wants to know how he could have developed such a horrific illness.

Philip’s case is yet another that highlights the devastating impact that asbestos exposure can have.

We have already begun our investigations into his employment history and would be keen to hear from anyone that may have information on the working conditions that Philip faced.”
Lucy Andrews - Associate Solicitor

When Philip was employed by Armstrong Oiler Company Ltd, they were based in the old Rowntree’s Tanners Moat factory.  The site has since been demolished.

Philip was initially an apprentice for the company, which specialised in creating a device for lubricating railway axel boxes. He then became a maintenance fitter before spending a number of years as a foreman at the site.

He recalled: “The site was very old-fashioned and there was certainly nothing modern about it. My job took me across a range of departments, but I particularly recall working with a compressor which was used to operate tools and equipment.

“A boiler was situated next to it and was covered in white cladding. Looking back I recognise the material was probably asbestos, and using the compressor meant I would occasionally rub against it. I was always very dirty and dusty after being at work.

“By the time I was diagnosed, I had lost over seven kilograms in weight and the muscle loss was plain to see.  This has had a major effect on my mobility, and walking is now a serious effort with only short distances possible.  This is a particular problem as I used to enjoy taking our dogs for long walks, often of about three miles or more.

“I used to enjoy gardening and DIY but any physical effort is now not possible.  I also fly radio controlled model aircraft as a hobby, but my lack of mobility is now a bigger issue as the cold weather restricts my movement even more.

“As a result, I don’t see friends as much as I would like to, and I don’t have the confidence to stray too far from home, which has had an effect on my wellbeing and time with my family.

“While nothing will ever change what has happened, I just need to know why I’ve ended up suffering like this.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lucy Andrews at Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office on 0113 394 6782 or email lucy.andrews@irwinmitchell.com.

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