A RETIRED North East bricklayer is appealing to his former workmates to help his legal case after he was diagnosed with asbestosis.

Anthony Walden, 78, from Darlington, contracted pneumonia in 2012 and chest x-rays taken at the time revealed he was also suffering from asbestosis - a chronic lung condition caused by inhaling asbestos dust and fibres many years ago.

Mr Walden has now asked lawyers at Irwin Mitchell’s Newcastle office to assist him in understanding where he was exposed to the deadly substance and if more could have been done by his previous employers to protect him.

He is seeking justice and a settlement which will be used to provide vital care and support he will need to help him cope with the symptoms of the condition.

Mr Walden is appealing to his former colleagues to come forward to help with the investigation and provide details of the working conditions they were exposed to, and of any measures that were in place to prevent them coming into contact with asbestos.

Mr Walden worked as a bricklayer at R Blackett & Son Limited in Darlington between 1951 and 1957 and 1959 and 1966.

After leaving he was employed by building contractor, L C Abdale Limited, in Darlington, working on a warehouse on Whessoe Road, which he recalled had an asbestos roof.

He returned to work for R Blackett & Son between 1971 and 1976 and worked for Darlington Council during 1981 and 1982 where he was involved in refurbishing local authority housing at Firthmoor and Shakespeare Road.

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help Mr Walden’s case can contact either Isobel Lovett or Emma Tordoff at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors on 0191-279-0104.