Former joiner appeals for witnesses following mesothelioma diagnosis

Andrew Towers, aged 67, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, an incurable cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, in October 2024.  

From 1973 to 1979 he worked as a joiner in Leeds. During this time, he believes he may have been exposed to asbestos.  

Andrew did general joinery and maintenance work such as making window and door frames, ripping out the interiors of old buildings, installing fire doors, installing partitions and stud walls, and installing suspended ceilings. 

Now he is looking for witnesses who may have worked at the below companies who can give an insight into how he may have come into contact with asbestos. 

• Illingworth & Ingham & Co Ltd – General Joinery, Leeds - 1973/74 to 1974/75
• Harris & Scully – Shopfitting, Leeds – 1974/75
• J P Construction (Northern) Limited – General Joinery, Wetherby – 1974/75 to 1997/78.
• Leeds City Council – Torrey Road Council Estate – 1977/78 to 1978/79
• J Buckle & Son (1975) Ltd – General Maintenance Company, Leeds – 1978/79 

Following his diagnosis, Andrew instructed asbestos claims specialist solicitors at law firm Leigh Day.

The legal team would like to speak to anyone who worked in the same locations that Andrew worked in from 1973 to 1979.  

Leigh Day personal injury partner Louisa Saville said:  

“We are appealing for anyone who may have worked with Andrew, or anyone with information about the presence of asbestos to come forward. We are keen to speak to joiners, or people who worked alongside joiners.”

If you worked at the named companies and remember asbestos being used or disturbed, please contact Louisa Saville on lsaville@leighday.co.uk, or call  0113 3406 277.