A FORMER scrap metal worker was awarded more than £182,000 in damages yesterday after his treatment for bladder cancer caused further problems.

Ray Bradshaw sued South Tees Health Authority for damages after radiotherapy at South Cleveland Hospital, Middlesbrough, Teesside, was administered to his colon, as well as his bladder.

Yesterday, at Teesside County Court, Judge David Bryant awarded damages of £162,381 plus interest, bringing the total to £182,546.

The judge had previously ruled that damage to Mr Bradshaw's colon was caused by unorthodox, negligent radiotherapy.

Judge Bryant said the doctor's actions amounted to negligence because he chose to apply the radiotherapy in that particular way.

Mr Bradshaw had earlier received a settlement of £50,000 from the representatives of his general practitioner, now dead, who had failed to diagnose his cancer in 1988, which meant he was not referred for treatment until 1991. The settlement was made without an admission of liability.

Mr Bradshaw, 52, who now lives in Southern Ireland, ran a car breaking business at Bowesfield Lane Industrial Estate, Stockton, Teesside, until his cancer was diagnosed. He was then 44.

Mr Bradshaw was left with a bag to drain waste from his body after the bladder operation.

After suffering problems with his colon, he required a colostomy bag which was inconvenient and caused unpleasantness, said Judge Bryant.

It was also uncomfortable and embarrassing.

Judge Bryant said the two bags have put a considerable limitation on Mr Bradshaw's day-to-day activities.

Mr Bradshaw had no comment to make after the hearing