Information Sought On Working Conditions

The family of a former Foseco worker are appealing to his ex-workmates for help following his death from asbestos-related cancer.

David Randle, of Tamworth, died from mesothelioma, a terminal form of cancer linked to exposure to asbestos, often decades earlier.

Following David’s death, his family instructed asbestos-related disease experts at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and how he came into contact with asbestos.  They have now joined with their legal team in appealing for information about how he was exposed to the asbestos that claimed his life.

They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who worked for Foseco Ltd, a company which made products for use in the steel industry, where David was employed between 1963 and 1972.  He worked at its factory in Drayton Manor, now the site of the adventure theme park, close to Tamworth.  David worked on the powder section. Powder shot down a chute to him below and he had to fill large sacks, similar to potato sacks, with the powder. He then ran the top of the sack along a machine to seal it.  It was a dusty process.

The appeal comes ahead of Action Mesothelioma Day. Taking place on July 2, the event is a time to reflect on the terrible legacy of the illness and the importance of upholding safety standards at all times.

Expert Opinion

“David’s death is yet another reminder of the terrible legacy asbestos has left behind with the majority of people diagnosed many years after their exposure took place.

Understandably David’s loved ones have been left devastated by his death and still have a number of questions about what caused his illness.

While nothing can make up for their loss we’re determined to provide the family with the answers they deserve.

Therefore we would be grateful if anyone who worked at Foseco could come forward with details on the working conditions they faced there. Any information could prove vital.”
Alida Coates - Partner & Head of Asbestos and Occupational Disease (South)

David began to feel unwell in the Summer of 2020.  Within one month, his mobility had decreased and he was suffering from shortness of breath, confusion and fatigue.

He underwent a series of tests and was diagnosed with mesothelioma on 28 August 2020.  He died just a few days later.

David was married to Hilary. The couple have two children and three grandchildren.

Hilary said: “It’s only been a few months since I lost David and it stills feels so raw.  His condition deteriorated and he went downhill so quickly.

“It was particularly difficult to watch him deteriorate, knowing there was nothing I could do to help.  He was my soulmate and coming to terms with him no longer being here is heartbreaking.

“While I can’t do anything to bring him back, the family still has so many questions about how he fell ill, and we would be so grateful if anyone could come forward with information that could help us honour David’s memory.”

Anyone with information about working conditions at either of these companies should contact Alida Coates on 0370 1500 100 ext 5228 or by e-mail at alida.coates@irwinmitchell.com.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling asbestos-related disease cases