News Summary
Andrew Sharp, a 70-year-old man from Oldham, passed away due to peritoneal mesothelioma, linked to asbestos exposure during his employment. His family is now pursuing legal action against his former employers to uncover the source of his asbestos exposure and seek compensation. The community rallies around the Sharp family in this painful time, and calls have been made for anyone with information related to Andrew’s work history to assist in the investigation.
Tragic Loss: Asbestos-Linked Cancer Claims Life of 70-Year-Old
In a heart-wrenching case that highlights the dark legacy of asbestos, Andrew Sharp, a former computer operator from Oldham, was tragically diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in March 2024, a form of cancer that is predominantly linked to asbestos exposure. Just months after his diagnosis, Andrew succumbed to the illness at the age of 70, leaving behind his beloved family and unanswered questions.
A Life Cut Short
Andrew’s family, particularly his widow Susan, is left grappling with the aftermath of his rapid decline. The couple married in 2002, and Andrew was a devoted father to two sons, Alistair and Christopher, from a previous marriage. Known for his love of adventure, Andrew was an active motorbike enthusiast, frequently embarking on biking trips across the UK and Europe with fellow enthusiasts. But as his health took a turn for the worse starting in April 2022, a shadow was cast over those joyful memories.
Tracing the Source of Asbestos Exposure
With Andrew’s passing, Susan and her family now seek to uncover the origins of his asbestos exposure, focusing on Andrew’s time at R R Whitehead Brothers Limited and Initial Textile Services Limited. Andrew worked at R R Whitehead Brothers Limited from 1972 to 1974 in both stock control and as a cost clerk. He vividly recalled the heating pipes in the mill that were likely lagged with asbestos and suspected that the premises contained old, worn corrugated asbestos roofing in specific areas of the building.
Later, from 1980 to 1988, Andrew’s work at Initial Services Limited, which later became Initial Textile Services, brought him further into contact with possibly hazardous conditions. His duties included collecting printing materials from a dusty storeroom filled with lagged pipes and assisting in the partial demolition of a poorly vented structure. The risks associated with such environments cannot be overstated.
Community Support and Calls for Information
The community’s support has rallied around the Sharp family during this devastating time. Rob Rayner from the Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group emphasized that even low levels of asbestos exposure can lead to the development of mesothelioma. He urged anyone who may have information regarding Andrew’s work history or potential exposure to step forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
In remembrance and solidarity with victims of asbestos-related diseases, Action Mesothelioma Day is observed annually on July 4, providing a platform to raise awareness and support affected individuals.
The Legal Battle Continues
Even though both R R Whitehead Brothers Limited and Initial Textile Services Limited have ceased operations, Susan Sharp and her family are not backing down in their search for justice. Irwin Mitchell has taken on the case, tirelessly assisting the Sharp family in navigating the legal complexities tied to Andrew’s illness and his past work history. The law firm aims to establish a clear linkage between Andrew’s condition and his previous employers, delving into the details of his exposure to asbestos and seeking potential compensation for the family’s loss.
Asbestos-related diseases remain a significant public health issue, claiming countless lives and affecting families across the country. The ongoing legal efforts aim not only to provide justice for victims but also to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure, ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated in the future.
Members of the public who can contribute information regarding Andrew Sharp’s exposure are encouraged to reach out to Casey Foden at Irwin Mitchell, so that the fight for justice can continue and possibly bring closure to a grieving family.
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Additional Resources
- Irwin Mitchell: Asbestos-Related Disease Section
- Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group
- Legal 500: Irwin Mitchell LLP
- HSE: Asbestos Information
- Wikipedia: Mesothelioma
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