His diagnosis is part of a much wider legacy of asbestos exposure that continues to have devastating consequences across the UK. 

New Health and Safety Executive (HSE) data, released this month, reveals that 2,146 people died from mesothelioma in 2024 as a result of past asbestos exposure.  

The North East has been disproportionately affected by asbestos-related disease, with some of the highest mesothelioma death rates in the country recorded among both men and women between 1981 and 2024*. 

Rodney, 79, was diagnosed in June 2025 after becoming increasingly breathless. Following scans and a biopsy, doctors confirmed he had mesothelioma, a disease that can take decades to develop after asbestos exposure. 

Like many workers of his generation, Rodney had no idea that the conditions he worked in as a young man could have life-changing consequences more than half a century later. 

Represented by Thompsons Solicitors' specialist North East-based asbestos team, Rodney pursued a claim against his former employer, formerly known as Armstrong Cork Insulation, based in Team Valley, where he worked during the early 1970s. 

The claim has since settled out of court for an undisclosed sum, with his legal team also securing provision for any future recommended private treatment linked to his condition. The settlement was reached without any admission of liability.

During his time at Armstrong Cork, Rodney worked across several departments involved in the manufacture of floor and ceiling tiles. His duties included packing finished products, operating machinery and working in areas where asbestos-containing materials were used as part of the manufacturing process.

Lyn Davidson, Rodney’s daughter, said: "Mesothelioma affects far more than the person diagnosed. As a family, we've had to come to terms with the fact that something Dad was exposed to at work decades ago is still affecting his life today. 

"The settlement can't undo the damage that's been done, but it has given us peace of mind that support is available and that Dad can focus on spending time with his family and making the most of every day. 

"What has really surprised us is learning how many people across the North East have been affected by asbestos-related diseases. We had no idea that so many workers and families were still living with the consequences of historic exposure. 

"If sharing Dad's story helps another family realise there is support available after a diagnosis like this, then it will be worth it." 

Amanda Jones, Head of Asbestos at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Rodney's case is a powerful reminder that the consequences of workplace exposure do not end when a shift finishes or even when a worker retires. For many people diagnosed with mesothelioma, the impact of asbestos exposure is only felt decades later. 

"It is important to recognise that preventable workplace injuries and illnesses continue to affect workers and families long after the original exposure took place. Sadly, asbestos-related diseases remain one of the clearest examples of that legacy.

"The North East has been disproportionately affected by asbestos-related disease, with some of the highest mesothelioma death rates in the country recorded among both men and women between 1981 and 2024.

“Many of the people we represent worked in factories, shipyards, construction and manufacturing roles across the North East and beyond. They were simply doing their jobs and had no idea that the conditions they worked in could lead to a terminal illness many years later.

"While no amount of compensation can undo Rodney's diagnosis or the impact it has had on him and his family, securing this settlement provides an important measure of financial security and access to future treatment and support."

For Rodney's family, sharing his story is about highlighting the human impact of asbestos exposure and ensuring the experiences of workers affected by historic failings are not forgotten.

* mesoarea.pdfÂ