Date of article: 17/08/2007
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A steel erector from Leeds received substantial compensation after developing an asbestos-related lung condition through exposure to asbestos working for a contractor in power stations across the UK.
Charles Walton 69, was diagnosed with pleural thickening a condition which has left him breathless and unable to carry out certain tasks
He worked in power stations across the UK for a contractor between 1958 and 1977. His job involved pulling asbestos lagging off pipes in power stations at Kirkstall, Skelton Grange and Ferrybridge.
Walton says he was never given protective overalls or a dust mask to wear and was surrounded by asbestos:
"I am very concerned about my diagnosis. It has come as a shock to me, as no one warned me that my health might be at risk when working with asbestos. I can no longer walk two streets away to the GP and I sit in the car when my wife and I go shopping because I cannot cope with walking around shops and carrying bags due to breathlessness."
Walton's employer is no longer in business and was not insured. Thompsons Solicitors claimed compensation from the power stations where Charles had worked.
Marion Voss, client representative at Thompsons Solicitor says:
"This was a difficult case. Mr Walton was unwittingly exposed to asbestos while working in power stations. As a result Mr Walton is now debilitated in his daily life. But his employer no longer exists so we pursued his claim against the occupiers of the power stations and their insurers. We are pleased we have been able to win his claim. It is only right he receives compensated for his condition."
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