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Heartbreak at Leeds ‘asbestos cancer’ death
Andrew Ward.
The widow of a man who died aged 54 of an asbestos-related cancer has spoken of her “heartbreak” that he missed becoming a grandfather.
Solicitors are now investigating how Andrew Ward, right, was exposed to the deadly fibres which lead to mesothelioma.
Mr Ward, from Lower Wortley, Leeds, died in March 2011 – eight months after being diagnosed with the incurable cancer of the lung lining.
His wife, Daryl, who was married to Andrew for 32 years, said: “I’m totally devastated by Andrew’s death. It was horrifying to see the cancer take hold so quickly, and at such a young age for mesothelioma.
“Our daughter Leanne gave birth to her first child in October and it’s heartbreaking to know that Andrew has missed out on the chance to be a grandfather. It’s something he had always looked forward to.”
Solicitors Irwin Mitchell are looking into conditions at William G Search Limited, where Mr Ward worked as a hire controller between 1978 and 1981.
The firm, which has its head office on Whitehall Road, Leeds, leases out equipment including portable buildings.
Mrs Ward added: “Nothing can bring Andrew back but I just want to get to the bottom of where and why he was exposed to asbestos. If anybody worked at the company during the same time as Andrew I urge them to come forward.”
A spokesman for William G Search said: “We are of course very sad to hear that one of our former employees has passed away at such a relatively young age, and our thoughts are with his widow and family.”
He added that the long-established family business had an “exceptional” safety record and did all possible to make it a safe place to work for employees.
The spokesman said that their insurers had conducted enquiries, including with former workers and around Mr Ward’s employment with the firm, and had concluded the company was not responsible for his illness.
“Whilst we have the greatest sympathy for Mr Ward’s family on its loss, we do not believe that this company was responsible in any way for the disease,” he added.
Anyone who worked with Mr Ward or has information should contact Ian Toft on 0870 1500 100 or email: ian.toft@irwinmitchell.com
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