Appeal to trace former work colleagues of Sheffield man who died from asbestos-related cancer

Ronald Martin, who went by the name Ron, from Pitsmoor, died on June 4 last year aged 75 after being diagnosed with mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lungs most commonly associated with being exposed to asbestos decades prior to diagnosis.

On advice of the coroner, his wife of nearly 40 years Maggie has instructed specialist lawyers at Taylor and Emmet Solicitors to help investigate how Ron came into contact with the substance.

She joined forces with the firm to appeal to his former work colleagues at James Neill and Co – across three sites on Napier Street, Handsworth Road, and Atlas Way – from the mid-1960s to 2005 to come forward with any information which may help with the investigation.

Maggie said: “Ron went to the shop one day and he was out of breath so I rang for an ambulance and we went to the hospital. That’s how we found out he had mesothelioma. He was only diagnosed a couple of months before he passed away at home.

“He was originally from Jamaica and worked at James Neills for over 40 years. He was a miller setter putting teeth on hacksaw blades and we met there, although I left a long time before him.

"He was a lovely man. It would bring peace of mind to us to know what happened. He was the life and soul of a party and loved dancing but, towards the end, he couldn’t do that as he was so out of breath.

"I looked after him from start to finish and it was difficult for me to see him like that.”

Jonathan Stittle, head of the personal injury department Taylor and Emmet’s Sheffield office, said: "We’ve tried friends, trade unions, relatives, but we can’t find people who worked with Ron at James Neills.

"It would be very difficult to proceed with this claim without the witnesses. The family would be grateful for anyone who would be able to help.”

Anyone with information that could assist with the case should email [email protected] or call 0114 218 4049.

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