The wife of a former telephone engineer who died from an asbestos-related cancer is appealing to his colleagues for help in finding out how he was exposed to the dangerous fibres.

Jack Jamieson from Newcastle was diagnosed with mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, in June 2017. He died two months later, aged 73.

The grandfather-of-six worked at BT’s Telephone Exchange, then known as GPO, in the early 1960s, before moving to more office-based work within the firm.

His wife of 51 years, Moira, is now urging his former colleagues to share any information they may have about asbestos at the Telephone Exchange.

“If you have any information at all about the presence and use of asbestos where he worked, please get in touch as soon as possible,” said Mrs Jamieson. “It could be the missing piece of the puzzle we need.”

Jack Jamieson when he worked at BT's Telephone Exchange
Jack Jamieson when he worked at BT's Telephone Exchange

Following her husband’s death, Mrs Jamieson instructed asbestos disease specialists Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a compensation claim.

Solicitor Helen Jones, who is representing the family, said: “Sadly, many individuals and their families are experiencing the devastating effects asbestos exposure in the past can cause.

“We are hoping people who used to work with Jack can help Moira with her search for answers.”

Anyone with information should contact Thompsons Solicitors on 0191 269 0625.