The devastated family of a "lovely" North East grandad have launched an appeal to find his former work colleagues in a mission to find out how he was exposed to the asbestos that claimed his life.
Trevor Cockerill, from Stockton, died from mesothelioma in November 2022, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure, often from decades prior.
The 83-year-old formerly worked at Stockton lift and escalator parts manufacturer Pickerings Ltd until 2001 after joining as an apprentice fitter in 1955. His role saw him drilling boards, cutting tubing which left him covered in "plumes of dust".
Sadly, in 2022, Trevor suddenly became ill. He died just a week after being admitted into hospital where fluid was found on his lung - and an inquest later ruled he died from the asbestos linked cancer.
Trevor left behind a wife, June, two children, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who have launched a case to investigate his illness and find out whether it was linked to his work history.
Trevor's daughter Lynn, 62, 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 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.”
She added: “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.”
Legal firm Irwin Mitchell are taking on the case on behalf of the family and have made an appeal for anyone who knew or may have worked with Trevor to come forward.
Emma Bell, the expert asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Lynn, said: “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.
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“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.”
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
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