Family seek help after asbestos-related death of power station worker
Derek Hockley, inset, worked at Cliff Quay power station in Ipswich. - Credit: Archant
The family of a former Suffolk power station worker who died from an asbestos-related disease hope former colleagues may help them find answers over his death.
Derek Hockley, who died from an asbestos-related disease. Picture: HOCKLEY FAMILY - Credit: Archant
Derek Hockley died aged 79 last August, having suffered with severe breathlessness for around two and later being diagnosed with asbestosis.
His wife Christine instructed asbestos related lawyers Irwin Mitchell to investigate his death and find out how he may have been exposed to the toxic material. They are appealing for anyone who worked with Mr Hockley during his time at Cliff Quay Power Station, south of Ipswich, between 1960-64 to get in touch.
Mrs Hockley, 63, said her husband worked asbestos during his time at the power station, when the dangers were not known.
“It has been very difficult coming to terms with losing Derek and the whole family misses him so much,” she added.
Mr Hockley, pictured during his days working at Cliff Quay power station: Picture: HOCKLEY FAMILY - Credit: Archant
“It was awful seeing him struggle with the symptoms of his illness, with his breathlessness meaning it was difficult for him to even get up the stairs in our house.
“We just feel after everything he went through that we deserve justice and answers regarding his ordeal, so any help with information about Cliff Quay would be hugely appreciated.”
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The plea for information comes with Action Mesothelioma Day approaching on July 7, a day to raise awareness of the disease and to remember those affected by it.
Samantha Shaw, the family’s lawyer, said: “This case is sadly like a huge number we are involved in, with a person going on to develop a very serious condition as a result of asbestos exposure which is believed to have occurred several decades ago.
“We are determined to help our clients gain a greater understanding of how Derek developed this condition and whether more should have been done to help him. As part of this, we would be hugely grateful if anyone who can shed light on the working conditions at Cliff Quay in the 1960s would be able to help us.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Samantha Shaw at Irwin Mitchell’s Cambridge office by emailing samantha.shaw@IrwinMitchell.com or calling 01223 791 815.
