Six-figure settlement including future dependency compensation for widow of former welder.

We went to see Martyn and Yvonne after Martyn was diagnosed with mesothelioma, following some investigations into his cough and shortness of breath. He told us that he had worked for Young Austen & Young Limited in the 1960s and 70s as a welder, and Matthew Hall Limited from the 1970s until 2008. Martyn had a really good memory of the jobs he worked on, which were an assortment of premises including Euston Tower, Thames TV and even in the Royal Courts of Justice. He had come into contact with asbestos in a host of ways but mainly around lagged pipework, which he disturbed during his work. It was this dust that is believed to have caused his mesothelioma.

We made the defendants aware of the case and medical evidence was sought, including respiratory, oncology and care evidence.

Liability was swiftly admitted by the defendants who agreed to pay Martyn interim damages. In the months leading to this point, sadly Martyn’s health had deteriorated significantly. Martyn died soon afterwards and the case was taken up by his widow, Yvonne.

We prepared further evidence in the case including obtaining updated expert reports. The case on quantum was put to the defendant and offers were received from the defendants solicitors. The case settled for a significant six-figure sum which included future dependency, as Martyn was a very handy man and would have continued to provide services to the household including DIY, gardening and domestic assistance that now has to be professionally provided.

Yvonne and Martyn were married for 54 years and their relationship stood not only the test of time, but through the harrowing ordeal of Martyn’s illness and death, at the fault of his previous employers. No amount of money could ever put things right for Martyn’s family, but we hope the full admission of fault and compensation goes even a little way to obtaining justice for the family.

Yvonne had this to say about our service:

"A five star service, David Hughes represented my late husband in the claim for mesothelioma. We found David to be caring, compassionate and professional at all times. Sadly, I had to take up the case when my husband passed away. David was incredibly helpful and supportive and achieved a very favourable outcome for myself. I would have no hesitation in recommending RWK Goodman and especially David Hughes."

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Martyn was the light of his family, and we know he will be sorely missed. We wish all the very best to Yvonne and the family and it was a real pleasure to act for them.