A FORMER chemical plant worker is appealing to his ex-workmates for help, following his diagnosis of mesothelioma.

Tom Barnes, 73, a former draughtsman who worked at William Blythe in Church, near Accrington from 1956 to 1965, has been diagnosed with the terminal asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma.

He is now hoping that his former workmates from William Blythe in Church will come forward and help with an investigation into how he contracted the condition.

The widower and father-of-four has asked expert industrial illness lawyers at Irwin Mitchell’s Manchester office to investigate his exposure to asbestos and find out if steps could have been taken to prevent his cancer.

Mr Barnes is seeking a settlement that he will use to pay for the care and support he will need as his condition worsens, as well as securing the financial future of his family.

Charlotte Hobday, an expert industrial disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell’s Manchester office, said: “There are so many people suffering from these diseases now as a result of the failings of their employers years ago.

“We are asking Tom’s former colleagues to come forward and provide information about the working conditions at William Blythe and asbestos there.

“We are looking to contact people who worked there in the 1950s and 1960s in the chemical plant, particularly anyone who remembers lagged pipework or anyone from the maintenance team”

Tom, who lives in Bacup, said: “This diagnosis was a complete shock to me. I’m extremely angry and upset that I will be denied the pleasures I was looking forward to enjoying following my retirement.

“I want to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos so that no-one else goes through this.” William Blythe said it did not want to make a comment.

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help is asked to contact Charlotte Hobday at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors on 0161 838 2381 or alternatively you email charlotte.hobday@irwinmitchell.com.