A FORMER shipyard worker whose lung cancer diagnosis has been linked to asbestos exposure is calling on his old workmates to come forward and help him gain answers regarding his illness.

Charles Orr, 79, from Sunderland, who is commonly known as Vernon, developed a strong cough in 2016 and after the problems persisted he sought medical advice from his GP.

After tests and treatment, doctors then went on to suggest that the condition could be linked to contact with asbestos.

Following the news, Mr Orr instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and help him gain answers as to whether it may be linked to his working life.

As part of their ongoing work, the legal experts are now appealing for information from anyone who may be able to shed light on the conditions that Mr Orr would have faced during his time working for: Smiths Dock Co Ltd in North Shields from September 1955 to October 1960, as well as for a short spell in 1963; Middle Dock Co Ltd in South Shields from August 1965 to August 1982 and A&P Ltd in Hebburn from 1989 up until his retirement in September 2004.

Anyone with information which may assist with this case is asked to contact Rebecca Harron at Irwin Mitchell’s Newcastle office on 0191-279-0095 or email rebecca.harron@irwinmitchell.com.