Former bricklayer appealing for witnesses following asbestos lung disease diagnosis
A retired bricklayer from Hull is appealing for information from former colleagues to help identify how he may have been exposed to asbestos, following his diagnosis with pleural thickening.
Posted on 26 June 2025
Joseph Sidwell, aged 70, worked at Geo Houlton & Sons Ltd in Hull between 1971 and 1976. He carried out all aspects of building work including bricklaying, plastering, tiling, and roof work at domestic and commercial sites in and around the Hull area.
Joseph was tasked with removing, repairing and replacing fireplaces, and working on boilers, during which he believes he was exposed to asbestos present in panelling, cement and fire bricks.
In January 2024, he was diagnosed with pleural thickening, a condition affecting the protective membrane surrounding the lungs, which can be caused by inhaling asbestos fibres.
The legal team working on his case would like to speak to anyone who knew or working with Joseph to share information about where he may have encountered asbestos.
Louisa Saville, partner in Leigh Day’s asbestos team said:
“Joe’s case is typical of many we see where his asbestos exposure occurred many years ago. We’re appealing for anyone who knew Joe, or who worked at Geo Houlton & Sons at a similar time to come forward who may have further information about the conditions he worked in and the way he came into contact with asbestos.”
Anyone who is able to shed light on Joseph’s work should contact Louisa Saville on lsaville@leighday.co.uk, or call 0113 3406 277.
