He died less than five months after receiving his diagnosis, when he was only in his 60s. 

At the time, he was enjoying a successful second career, earning a high salary with bonuses and benefits, and often spoke about working well into his 70s. His sudden and premature death had a devastating emotional and financial impact, leaving his wife without the lifelong partner and future they had built together. 

After learning of his illness, he turned to Thompsons Solicitors’ specialist asbestos team to investigate the circumstances surrounding his exposure and bring a claim against his former employer.  

As part of the case, the legal team - led by expert asbestos legal specialist Neil Baines from Thompsons’ Nottingham office - alleged that, as a young apprentice electrician, he was routinely exposed to asbestos while working at sites such as tanneries and boiler houses.  

His duties involved removing and replacing machinery and fuse boards, disturbing asbestos-lagged steam pipes, handling asbestos rope and sheets, and cleaning up dust and debris. It was alleged he was never provided with protective equipment or warned about the dangers of asbestos exposure. 

Medical evidence from a specialist Chest Physician supported the view that, had he not developed mesothelioma, he would have continued working until at least the age of 75. 

Although the company he worked for no longer existed, Thompsons took steps to restore it to the Register of Companies so legal proceedings could begin. The defendant’s insurer disputed key parts of the claim, including the extent of his widow’s financial dependency, but settlement discussions ahead of a scheduled court hearing led to an agreement of £1.8 million gross. 

The outcome reflects both the deep personal loss his wife and family have endured, and the significant financial consequences that asbestos exposure and a premature death can bring. It also highlights the importance of expert legal advice in complex cases where both responsibility and compensation are contested. 

Amanda Jones, Partner and Head of Asbestos at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “This case shows the devastating impact asbestos exposure can have — not only on those directly affected, but also on the families left behind. Our client should have had many more years with her husband. Instead, his life was tragically shortened by an entirely preventable illness. 

“It was a privilege to support his family through such a difficult time and to secure a settlement that recognises both the emotional and financial toll they have endured.” 

The client and his family were also supported by the East Midlands Asbestos Support Team (EMAST), who provided practical advice and helped secure benefits for his condition.