Compensation for mesothelioma recovered after BBC reported wife's plight

21/02/2011

This case study demonstrates the expertise of our Chemical Poisoniong & Asbestos team who recovered compensation for a widow whose husband died from mesothelioma developed following occupational exposure to asbestos.

John Wilson developed mesothelioma following occupational exposure to asbestos when working for the South Eastern Gas board (SEGB) from 1961 to 1963. By the time his wife Maureen instructed us, John had already died and the solicitors he had instructed to pursue his claim were not confident that the claim would succeed. We recovered significant compensation for Maureen.

John worked as a van driver's mate for SEGB based at their Old Kent Road depot between 1961 and 1963 delivering asbestos products and materials to various sites. The products included asbestos flue pipes that he would carry by placing his arms through them. The delivery vehicle was an open back truck and was swept out after every day's work. John had not been exposed to asbestos with any other employer.

What was missing was sufficient independent evidence as to work practices at SEGB in the 1960s. The SEGB had no helpful documents from that period. Despite the availability of a National Gas Archive and other internet sources, this evidence was troublesome to locate.  However, in a BBC South East TV News broadcast in November 2006, Alan Care called for witnesses. This broadcast was also converted into a BBC internet news article and can be read here. This resulted in some former SEGB employees contacting us and providing the evidence we needed.

Although Mrs Wilson was "delighted" when the claim was settled, the case was tinged with sadness because despite financial security for her, no amount of money could ever replace her lost years of retirement with John.

Read more about our experience in mesothelioma cases.

Alan Care specialises in asbestos and other toxic substance poisoning cases.  If you would like to ask him a question about a potential case involving exposure to a toxic substance or you have a general query about a personal injury contact him on 01892 701219 in confidence.

"Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant from the time I walked in the door". Mrs Wilson