The family of a 60-year-old teacher who died of an asbestos-related disease have won their claim for compensation.

Terence Dugdale was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer that attacks the lining of the lung, after he was exposed to asbestos 40 years previously. From 1963 to 1968 he had worked as an apprentice gas fitter and from 1973 to 1975 as a housing maintenance inspector. By the time he was diagnosed with the disease he was working as a college lecturer.

After bringing the case Mr Dugdale’s family was awarded £240,000 in compensation.

Mesothelioma is a lethal form of cancer for which there is currently no cure. It can take a long time for symptoms of the disease to develop, usually a minimum of 30 years. Asbestos-related diseases can also affect those who have been exposed to asbestos indirectly. Recent claims have successfully been made by family members brought into contact with asbestos dust that had settled on the work clothes of relatives.

Many employers have failed to take the precautions necessary to protect workers from exposure to harmful asbestos fibres. If you, or someone you know, has been exposed to asbestos and now suffers from an asbestos-related disease, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible.

For advice and guidance on compensation claims, please contact riffat.yaqub@edwardsduthieshamash.co.uk.