Call Us
08000 224 224
You are in: Home Page |
News Desk | News Story
20th May 2008
Lionel Waldridge, 78, from Ipswich, was awarded the damages from energy firm EON Plc after he was diagnosed with fatal cancer of the lining of the lung, mesothelioma.
There is no cure for mesothelioma which is caused by exposure to asbestos.
Lionel was exposed to the dangerous dust while working as a maintenance fitter at Cliff Quay Power Station in Ipswich during the 1960s.
The granddad of four remembered working in thick dust in high temperatures but was never warned that his health may be at risk.
He said when he was diagnosed with mesothelioma it was a shock.
He said: “We did not know anything about mesothelioma. When we were told what it was it was like being given a death sentence.
“I had no idea when I was working with asbestos that it would lead to this. I thought the dust was just a nuisance rather than a hazard.”
Lionel, who enjoys sailing with his family, said he decided to get in touch with his union, Unite, for help to pursue compensation.
He said obtaining compensation was important to him: “I feel like they have robbed the children and my wife of me. My father lived until he was 96 and I thought I was going to as well.
“I was fit and we led an active life until I became ill. The money does not make up for everything we have lost, but it does give us a sense of justice.”
Unite’s South East Regional Secretary Jennie Bremner said: “We are pleased we have been able to resolve this case to our member’s satisfaction. Mesothelioma has affected the lives of so many of our members who were exposed to asbestos through doing a hard day’s work .
“Unite will continue to fight on behalf of its current and retired members who are suffering from asbestos related disease to ensure they are fully compensated.”
Thompsons Solicitors fought Lionel’s case on behalf of Unite. Client representative for Thompsons Ann-Marie Wilson added: “Mesothelioma is a devastating disease for all involved. It is important asbestos victims and their family members obtain proper compensation from the insurers of the companies who caused the disease.
“In the past many employers failed to take the necessary safeguards to protect their workers from the effects of asbestos dust and now people like Lionel and his family are paying the price.
“It was important to Lionel that his claim was dealt with quickly during his lifetime so that he knew his family would be provided for financially.”
If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related disease, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online compensation claim forms.