The widow of a Mortlake brewery worker is appealing for any of his former colleagues to get in touch.
Albert Thatcher, who died aged 67 from mesothelioma, a form of cancer linked to asbestos, spent most of his life in Mortlake before retiring in 2006. He started work at the former Watney’s Brewery in the 1950s when he was 15.
Mrs Thatcher said: “Albert had always been a very fit and active man.
“In his younger days he was a keen amateur boxer and was Surrey County Schools champion in 1955. We were married in 1964 and used to love camping and the outdoors.
“When we retired we bought a camper van so we could visit our family. In his spare time Albert also enjoyed fishing, woodwork and DIY around the house.
“When he was diagnosed with mesothelioma in January 2008 we were both absolutely devastated. From then on his condition began to deteriorate quickly. He lost his appetite and had difficulty eating.”
An inquest into Mr Thatcher’s death in December 2008 recorded a verdict of industrial disease and his wife is searching for information about how it happened and to raise awareness of International Workers Memorial Day held on Tuesday, which remembers workers who have been killed or injured as a result of their work.
Her solicitor Tariq Khan said: “Workers Memorial Day is a time for reflection and to remember workers like Albert who have been killed through simply trying to earn a living.
“Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related disease, for which there sadly is no cure.
“Although it can take upwards of 20 years from exposure to onset of the illness, once diagnosed it can be very aggressive and painful.
“The inquest showed that he died as a result of industrial disease and it is vital, in order for his family to continue with this claim for compensation, that people who have information come forward and assist us with our enquires.”
Mr Thatcher left wife Dorothy, two sons, a daughter and five grandchildren.
Former colleagues should contact Mr Khan on 0870 1500 100 or tariq.khan@irwinmitchell.com.
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