Eric has developed the asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma
A retired Leeds steel worker diagnosed with a life threatening asbestos-related disease is urging former colleagues to come forward with information about his working conditions.
Eric Cox, 78, worked for the former Dunlop and Ranken steel factory in Leeds from the 1970s until 2003, which involved cutting metal fabrication for tractors, forklifts and bridges.
He was later transferred to work on a grinding machine before being made redundant.
In August 2016, during an operation for a collapsed lung, doctors noticed a build-up of fluid and sent Eric for further tests. Two months later he was diagnosed with mesothelioma.
He and his family are now urging anyone who worked at Dunlop and Ranken with information about possible asbestos exposure to speak to Thompsons Solicitors.
“My dad has always been a hardworking man,” said Eric’s daughter. “Even after retirement he loved being up and about doing the shopping, cleaning and cooking for the family.
“Since his lung operation, however, things couldn’t have been more different. He struggles to get out of the house and is in constant pain.
“Having worked for Dunlop and Ranken for more than three decades we believe that someone out there will have information about the presence or use of asbestos in the factory, which can help pinpoint how my dad has developed this horrible disease.”
Marion Voss, the Thompsons solicitor representing the family, said: “We would urge anyone who is aware of the presence or use of asbestos at Dunlop and Ranken in Leeds to come forward and speak with us, as any information could be extremely helpful in answering questions for the family.”
Anyone with any information about the working conditions at the Dunlop and Ranken factory and processes involved, or information about asbestos in the workplace during Eric’s employment, should contact Marion Voss at Thompsons Solicitors’ Leeds office on 0113 205 6343.
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