Family Appeals For Information On Pickerings Ltd Following Dad’s Mesothelioma Death

The daughter of a former lift manufacturer worker and Stockton Town striker is appealing for help to establish how he was exposed to the asbestos that claimed his life.

Trevor Cockerill, of Stockton-on-Tees, died from mesothelioma, a terminal form of cancer - usually of the lining of the lung - linked to asbestos exposure, often decades previously. 

Trevor's family asks lawyers to investigate his asbestos exposure

Following the 83-year-old’s death his family, including daughter Lynn Wilson, instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and whether it was linked to his work history. 

Lynn, aged 62, has now joined her legal team in appealing to Trevor’s former workmates at Stockton-on-Tees lift and escalator parts manufacturer Pickerings Ltd to come forward with information about the conditions he would have faced. 

Trevor worked for the firm on the Portrack Lane Industrial Estate as a fitter for more than 40 years. 

Emma Bell is the expert asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Lynn.

Expert Opinion

“Trevor’s death is yet another reminder of the devastating impact of asbestos and how the repercussions of exposure are often only known years later.

“Trevor’s loved ones remain devastated by his death and the circumstances surrounding it. Understandably they continue to have concerns about how he was exposed to asbestos.

“While nothing can make up for their loss, we’re determined to provide Lynn with the answers she deserves regarding her dad’s death.

“Therefore, if anyone who remembers working with Trevor, or who has information about the company could come forward, it could prove vital in at least providing Lynn and the rest of Trevor’s family with some form of closure.” Emma Bell

Mesothelioma: Trevor Cockerill's story

Trevor joined Pickerings as a 16-year-old apprentice fitter in 1955. Following National Service as a lance corporal in the Royal Signals, he rejoined the firm in 1962 as a fitter. 

The company made various parts and components for the escalator and lift industry, including control panels. The panels were made of fireproof board, which it is believed contained asbestos. 

Trevor would cut the boards to size and then drill hundreds of holes into each board so wiring, electrical contactors and terminals could be fitted. 

Trevor would also cut tubing which would be used to make electrical resistance tubes. His tasks created plumes of dust which would cover his work overalls and hands. 

As part of his work Trevor would also visit Sunderland’s shipyard to gain experience on how lifts were fitted. Pipes on many ships would be lagged in material which it is believed contained asbestos. He left the firm in 2001.
 
Trevor was married to his wife, June, and together they had two children, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Trevor loved football and he played at semi-professional level as a striker for Stockton Town Football Club. He also enjoyed listening to music, especially Frank Sinatra, and loved spending time with his family, going to the park with his grandchildren and walking his dog.

He became unwell a few months before he died, and at the time had been prone to urinary tract infections. He had been under investigation for possible causes of this and on admission to hospital, it was found that he had fluid on his lung. He was fitted with a chest drain and was confused at this time. 

Trevor sadly died in November 2022 after a week’s stay in hospital. Following a post-mortem examination, an inquest 15 months after Trevor’s death concluded he died as a result of mesothelioma.

Lynn pays tribute to lovely and kind dad as family appeals for information 

Lynn said: “Dad was unwell for a few months before he passed away. He had lots of investigations and he deteriorated really quickly. We were shocked to find out that it was mesothelioma that had caused his death.” 

“Dad was a lovely, kind and generous man. He was honest and hardworking and we all looked up to him for help and guidance even as adults. Dad went from being an outgoing and independent person for his age to someone who was reliant on others. It was awful to see how he deteriorated so quickly and how he was robbed of the last few years of his life. 

“We wish we weren’t in his situation but the least I can do is honour dad’s memory by finding out the answers he would have wanted. 

“If any of his ex-workmates could come forward it could make all the difference.” 

How you can help Trevor's family

Anyone with information about the conditions Trevor faced should contact Stephanie Denham at Irwin Mitchell on 0191 434 0731 or by email at Stephanie.Denham@IrwinMitchell.com

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people and families affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos diseases at our dedicated asbestos-related disease claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.